Tight end Brian Polendey has plenty of experience in college football, as West Virginia is the third school of his college career. Polendey started at Miami, where he played from 2016-2019, then transferred to Colorado State in 2020 before coming to WVU in 2022.
Polendey, now a redshirt senior, has a unique advantage among WVU’s players when it comes to the Backyard Brawl: the tight end has played Pitt before, whereas many of his current teammates have never faced the Panthers.
During his time at Miami, playing Pitt was just another win for Polendey and the Hurricanes. One year, however, stands out to Polendey; on November 24, 2017, the No. 2 Hurricanes were upset by Pitt, ruining Miami’s perfect season.
“They’ve always had a solid defense and a capable offense,” Polendey said. “Ever since then, I haven’t liked Pitt very much, but I respect them.”
Polendey says that Pitt’s defensive line is one of the best aspects of its team, as and as a tight end, will likely be a challenge for Polendey on September 1. Despite the challenge, Polendey says he is comfortable where he is at and is ready to “jump right in” to the rivalry.
“I’m very comfortable with where I’m at with our system right now,” Polendey said, describing his role as a receiver.
Acting as a receiver is nothing new to Polendey, as he was utilized in the passing game while at Colorado State. Although primarily used a blocking tight end, Polendey says he “feels good where he’s at.”
With transferring schools comes changing offensive schemes, but the tight end says the changes are minimal under offensive coordinator Graham Harrell.
According to Polendey, fans will see a “good mix” of the passing and run game with Harrell’s offense. As a projected starter, Polendey is confident in his ability to contribute to the Mountaineers’ offensive success.
“I try to play every play as if it’s my last play,” Polendey said. “I see myself as someone who’s tough, physical…. I like to play fast.”
With his experience, Polendey says he has shared what it’s like to play against Pitt’s physical team with some of his less-experienced teammates.
“I’ve tried to relay what that’s going to be like,” Polendey said, regarding his younger teammates’ first collegiate game. “Just try to go in there with a cool head, and do your job.”
Photo by WVU Sports
