LOUISVILLE Ky.
Even after cutting through Maryland’s defense for 136 yards on just five carries last week, don’t expect to see West Virginia freshman Noel Devine taking any playing time away from star Steve Slaton.
West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez said he’ll likely continue keeping Devine on the sidelines early in games, then bring him in during the second half to give Slaton a break.
“I still think we don’t have to use him right away, we don’t want to give him too much and overload him,” Rodriguez said. “He’s still a freshman and he’s still learning.”
He’s learning pretty quickly. Devine has rushed for 256 yards and is averaging 15.1 yards per carry for the Mountaineers. The majority of the carries have come in the second half while spelling for Slaton. Devine put together two spectacular runs in the second half against the Terrapins to ignite a lethargic offense.
“Every time he’s had an opportunity, he’s made the most of it,” Rodriguez said.
Devine lacks Slaton’s straight-ahead speed, but his quickness and agility combined with his 5-foot-8, 170-pound frame make him a slippery target for defenses.
