West Virginia Kicker Set the Standard with 384 Career Points

In 2009, Pat McAfee was drafted in the seventh round of the NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. He would go on to spend eight seasons with them before announcing his retirement. During his NFL career, McAfee was named to two Pro Bowls (2014 & 2016) and named First-Team AP All Pro (2014). Although his playing days have come to an end, retirement was not the end of his sports career.  You may have seen or heard Pat on different radio shows or podcasts. Over the years, he has settled into his comfort zone on the air and has taken the sports media world by storm. He’s built a successful,  recognizable brand that has grown, possibly beyond his own expectations.

Former success helps the future

You may be wondering how the success of a former player could help create a spark for The Mountaineers’ football program? The answer to that question is simple: loyalty. West Virginia has the opportunity to cash in on the legacy that McAfee has built both on and off the field. On any given Saturday thousands of die hard fans flood to college stadiums to tailgate and watch the game. Amidst their pre-game festivities they may talk about past seasons, former players, up-and coming players, and above all, they’re bleeding their team colors.  Recently, Virginia Tech has used this strategy.  Each week, they name a different special teams player to wear the number twenty five. The number is a homage to former player and head coach, Frank Beamer, who wore the number during his playing days. Virginia Tech always produced on special teams, and what better way for them to honor the long-time head coach and use his legacy to excite their fans and players?

Building McAfee’s brand at WVU

It’s important to honor college legends and keep fans and players engaged with the program.  Implementing Pat McAfee would be a great way to do just that. This has already been done successfully with one former Mountaineer. Bruce Irvin was dedicated the “Bruce Irvin Speed and Conditioning Zone” shortly after his NFL career took off. Much like McAfee, Irvin had great success at West Virginia and this has been a great way to honor the legacy he left on the program.

Why not do something similar with Pat McAfee and his brand? Another pertinent talking piece is the opportunity that lies in titles.  For example, take the anointment of a school being “Linebacker U” or “Quarterback U.” Schools that earn these designations can have a slight advantage in attracting top talent because of the title itself and the success that in implies. Maybe capitalizing on Pat McAfee and his former success on special teams, we could see West Virginia evolve into “Special Teams U.”  Special Teams hasn’t been so special in recent memory for the Mountaineers. We must remember that it was only a few years ago that the team wouldn’t send a punt returner back, fearing that they would muff the punt. While having success on special teams won’t automatically turn WVU into a top contender, it could be a step in the right direction.

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