The Story of Owen Schmitt

By now, everyone knows the story of WVU's two Heisman candidates Pat White and Steve Slaton, but one must not overlook the third starter in that incredible backfield.

Today's Charleston Daily Mail features a Washington Post Article on WVU Fullback Owen Schmitt. Apparently, it was not an easy path from Division III to Division-1A

MORGANTOWN -- Owen Schmitt and his mother woke up before dawn in Fairfax on a January morning in 2003. They borrowed a car from a family friend, filled the gas tank and drove 215 miles through snow to West Virginia University. When they finally pulled into the parking lot behind Mountaineer Field, Schmitt suggested they turn around.

Already during his winter vacation, Schmitt had made a half-dozen similar trips to colleges within driving distance of Fairfax. He had peddled a tape of his football highlights to coaches at Maryland, James Madison and Virginia Military Institute -- only to be turned away each time. As Schmitt sat in the car, he watched West Virginia players walk to and from Mountaineer Field and felt convinced that failure loomed again.

It is a very compelling read and I strongly suggest you follow this link.

Here is my favorite quote:

"Whatever legend you've heard about Owen Schmitt, double it and you're getting close to the truth," said Bill Stewart, a West Virginia assistant coach. "The pro scouts come in here and leave drooling over him. This guy emulates everything you'd want in a football program. He's happy to do anything. And then he does everything well."

The "Four Horsemen" of Notre Dame were considered by many the finest offensive backfield of the 20th Century.

I think we are looking at the best backfield of the 21st Century right now in Morgantown.(And the second string is pretty good too!)