I’m not a West Virginia fan (Oregon), but I stumbled onto this podcast when wanting to hear the Mountaineer fan base’s reaction to Rich Rod coming back. I thought I’d listen for one, maybe two episodes, but here I am: months later, fully subbed, and listening all the time to a podcast of a team I don’t root for, all because of Mountaineer Paul. The guy is so wholesome; there’s an earnestness and sincerity in his unabashed love for West Virginia that is flat-out compelling. His gritty honesty about tough times he’s faced in life add an inspiring dimension not often seen in reaction and analysis sports podcasts.
So while I say I’m neutral on West Virginia, I’m all in on Mountaineer Paul and this Locked In Podcast. I’d actually love it if Rodriguez turns things around and gives Paul a football program that he and that fan base can be proud of again.