If offense wins championships, WVU is right back in the hunt. The Mountaineers have all the weapons in place to continue the rushing onslaught. They will miss big Owen Schmidt in the backfield and "go to" receiver Darius Reynaud. But the 1-2 punch of Pat White and Steve Slaton is back for what seems to be their millionth season - we have been calling their names each and every year with ‘08 to be their fourth campaigns together. If either one was going to announce intentions of going pro, Slaton likely fits the role. Pat White fits well at this level - he is a college coach’s dream when it comes to running with the ball and is best suited (and sized) as a QB to run this spread offense. Nobody runs (out of) the spread better than White, and this system is specifically formulated for his given skills. But with foes stacking the box and not enough dynamic play-calling, Pitt and USF prove this backfield to be human. While still respectable, Slaton's numbers dropped in 2007 and White was left carrying this team in the big games. Even if Slaton decided to jump ship, prized recruit Noel Devine is just as worthy to fill (and fly through) any gap. When it comes to stretching the field via the pass, no doubt WR Darius Reynaud will be missed. The remaining route runners are quality receivers and there exists a large quantity of them. But none has proven to be an ‘every down’ threat. Another big reason WVU is primed to duplicate (or improve) on their offensive totals is based on their OL, one that returns an upperclassman starter at every single position. The problems in Morgantown are going to revert back to defense, like in 2006 when the O was a juggernaut but the D could only rank 62nd. This was a much-improved defensive unit in 2007 and a big part of their Big East championship effort. Next season, like most, is going to be another test of rebuilding. LBs Mortty Ivy and Reed Williams were the team's leading tacklers. The coaches have done a good job of recruiting on this side of the ball as of late, understanding that the shortcomings in halting opponents have hurt this team in the past. However, this defense will still be a year away from putting WVU into the national championship hunt. But no one is going to count out a team with Pat White at the helm. The non-conference schedule finally gets a major upgrade with Colorado and Auburn on the list. Moreover, how far the defense matures this spring and summer will tell the final Mountaineer tale.