Cam Cook, a leading college football running back, has joined the West Virginia University football team for the upcoming season, he said on Apr. 2. Cook cited his relationship with offensive line coach Rick Trickett and familiarity with head coach Rich Rodriguez’s offense as key reasons for transferring to Morgantown.
Cook’s move is significant because of his standout performance last year at Jacksonville State, where he led the nation in runs of more than ten yards and gained over 1,600 rushing yards. His productivity exceeded that of previous high-profile transfer running backs at West Virginia.
“I have a real good relationship with him,” Cook said about Trickett. “Also, knowing coach Rich’s (Rodriguez) offense at (Jacksonville State) before he came here, that played a big role feeling comfortable coming here.”
Cook became the first Jacksonville State player in two decades to rush for more than 100 yards in seven consecutive games last season and had a career-high game against Sam Houston. He said his versatility is an asset: “It’s going to take more than one person to bring me down,” Cook admitted. “I can beat you to open space and make you miss. I can go and catch the ball… all of the stuff that has happened has made a big difference in how I chose to be here.”
Head coach Rodriguez said having an established runner like Cook benefits the team: “(Cook is) the only veteran guy (among the running backs)… He’s got experience… He’s got to be the alpha in the room.” Running backs coach Jay Boulware also praised Cook’s experience: “He’s played in a game at this level, which is more than everybody else in the room can say… He does everything well… His versatility in coach Rod’s offense adds a nice dimension.”
Cook began his college career at Texas Christian University before transferring to Jacksonville State and now West Virginia University. Reflecting on his journey, he said: “I think I’m bigger, faster, smarter… The whole process brought me here.” The Mountaineers expect an improved run game this season led by senior Cam Cook.
“I’m glad they went out and got him,” Boulware concluded.
