It was an impressive showing for backup quarterback Nicco Marchiol in a 31-26 win over Arizona this past weekend.
Marchiol was stepping in for Garrett Greene, who was injured in the first half of WVU’s previous game against Kansas State. To many, with Marchiol under center vs. Arizona, the Mountaineer passing game looked the best it had all year.
West Virginia head coach Neal Brown complimented the play of the redshirt sophomore, Marchiol, highlighting him playing “under control” and not having a “big negative play.” Some may wonder what Marchiol’s performance means for the starting job in the remainder of the season.
Brown believes it is not worth asking about just yet due to Greene’s injury.
“So, I’m sure some of y’all are going to ask about quarterbacks; I wouldn’t waste your time because it’s not worth talking about until he (Greene) is healthy,” he said.
However, Brown was asked about it and while he believes it’s unethical to have Greene lose his job while injured, he didn’t completely rule out the possibility of Marchiol taking over the rest of the way.
“I really can’t give you an answer until Garrett’s healthy and he’s not healthy right now. I think it’s hard to lose jobs when you’re injured; I don’t think that’s a good practice,” Brown said. “But Nicco played really well, and I’m happy for him, but I don’t have any long-term answer for you right now.”
In the victory against Arizona, Marchiol completed 18 passes on 22 attempts for 198 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Mountaineers to victory.
West Virginia is currently on their second and final bye week this season. As Greene recovers and WVU moves into their game week against Cincinnati (away) next week, the quarterback situation may be worth monitoring.
