Blown pass coverages and long runs allowed have been part of the troubles so far for a unit that is surrendering nearly 470 yards per game and ranks 112th among FBS schools.

Along comes a meeting today between West Virginia (1-1) and FCS Delaware State (0-2) in which the Mountaineers hope to see better results from a defense that replaced eight starters from a year ago, while linebacker David Long is out for at least the first month with a knee injury.

In West Virginia’s 56-20 win over East Carolina last week, the Pirates got most of their offensive production in the second half, including a 95-yard touchdown pass, after the Mountaineers jumped ahead 49-3 at halftime.

Simms’ challenge Holgorsen wants to see more out of Marcus Simms, who returned from a one-game suspension last week following his arrest on suspicion of drunken driving.

Brothers in uniform The game features three sets of brothers: West Virginia wide receiver Ka’Raun White and safety Kyzir White, and Delaware State has wide receiver Taronn Selby and defensive back Keyjuan Selby, and punter Fidel Romo-Martinez and punter/placekicker Jose Romo-Martinez.