Trey Lathan’s Journey: From West Virginia to Kansas and the Upcoming Showdown

As the Kansas Jayhawks prepare to face off against the West Virginia Mountaineers this Saturday, all eyes will be on linebacker Trey Lathan. The former Mountaineer has made a significant impact since transferring to Kansas, and this game marks a pivotal moment in his career as he faces his old team.

A Promising Start at West Virginia

Trey Lathan began his collegiate career at West Virginia, where he showcased his potential as a formidable linebacker. Over three seasons, he accumulated impressive statistics, including 79 tackles, nine tackles for loss, two sacks, and a forced fumble. However, his time in Morgantown was marred by injury. In 2023, Lathan suffered a broken tibia during a game against TCU, which sidelined him for a significant portion of the season. Despite this setback, his performance prior to the injury left many believing he had untapped potential.

According to Sports Illustrated, Lathan’s injury was a significant blow not only to his career but also to the Mountaineers’ defensive lineup. His ability to read plays and make crucial tackles was sorely missed, and the team struggled to fill the void left by his absence.

Flourishing at Kansas

Since transferring to Kansas, Lathan has experienced a remarkable resurgence. In just three games this season, he has demonstrated marked improvements in various aspects of his game, including pass coverage, tackling, and run defense. Pro Football Focus has reported a dramatic increase in his performance metrics compared to his final season at West Virginia:

• Overall grade: 76.8 (up from 49.1)
• Against the run: 77.6 (up from 49.1)
• Pass rush: 62.7 (up from 60.9)
• Tackling: 74.8 (up from 54.8)
• Pass coverage: 71.6 (up from 51.2)

These statistics highlight Lathan’s adaptability and growth in a new environment. The coaching staff at Kansas has effectively utilized his skills, allowing him to thrive in a system that plays to his strengths. This transformation serves as a testament to the importance of finding the right fit in collegiate athletics.

West Virginia’s Adaptation

While Lathan has flourished at Kansas, West Virginia has also made strides to adjust to his departure. The Mountaineers have turned to Colorado State transfer Chase Wilson, along with seasoned players Reid Carrico and Ben Cutter, to fill the linebacker void. Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Zac Alley, this new unit is gradually finding its rhythm.

The Mountaineers’ ability to adapt is crucial, especially as they prepare to face a Kansas team that is gaining momentum. The coaching staff has emphasized the importance of teamwork and communication, which are essential for a successful defensive unit. As they face Lathan, the Mountaineers will need to demonstrate that they can hold their own without their former star linebacker.

The Upcoming Showdown

The highly anticipated game between Kansas and West Virginia is set for Saturday at 6 PM ET, broadcast on FS1. This matchup not only serves as a personal battle for Lathan but also as a litmus test for both teams. For Lathan, it is an opportunity to showcase his growth and prove that he can excel against his former teammates. For West Virginia, it is a chance to demonstrate their resilience and adaptability in the face of change.

The stakes are high for both sides. Kansas aims to solidify its position in the conference, while West Virginia seeks to regain its footing after losing a key player. The outcome of this game could have significant implications for both teams as they navigate the remainder of the season.

Conclusion

Trey Lathan’s journey from West Virginia to Kansas is a compelling narrative of resilience and transformation. As he prepares to face his former team, the spotlight will be on his performance and the adjustments made by West Virginia. This game is not just about individual accolades; it represents the broader themes of growth, adaptation, and the ever-evolving landscape of college football. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this story unfolds on the field.