West Virginia suffered its first loss of the 2026 season as Oklahoma State pulled away for a 41-24 victory in the Mountaineers’ Big 12 opener at Milan Puskar Stadium.

Following the loss, head coach Rich Rodriguez took responsibility for a defensive performance that allowed Oklahoma State to pile up 609 yards of total offense.

“The plan we had failed,” Rodriguez said, adding that as head coach, it falls on him to make sure WVU has a plan capable of succeeding — and alternatives when that initial approach isn’t working.

Oklahoma State quarterback Drew Mestemaker proved especially difficult to contain, completing 20-of-27 passes for 389 yards and three touchdowns. Rodriguez said the Mountaineers failed to generate enough pressure, allowing Mestemaker to settle in and attack downfield.

WVU still produced 467 yards of offense, including 335 on the ground. Cam Cook rushed for 193 yards, while quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. added 102 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Hawkins also completed 10-of-22 passes for 132 yards.

Rodriguez acknowledged that WVU may have pressed offensively once it fell behind and said the coaching staff is still determining exactly what this group does best on both sides of the football.

Despite the difficult night, Rodriguez stressed that one loss will not define the Mountaineers and said he wants WVU to quickly turn its attention toward the next challenge.

West Virginia falls to 3-1 overall and 0-1 in Big 12 play and will travel to Iowa State next.

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