West Virginia University football moves 2027 Ohio game to Week 0 opener

West Virginia University announced that its 2027 home matchup against the Ohio University Bobcats has been moved from September 18 to August 28, creating a Week 0 opening game for the Mountaineers. The change makes the 2027 season start earlier than usual and marks the first time West Virginia will play a Week 0 contest.

No other games on the Mountaineers' 2027 schedule are altered: they will still host Southern Miss on September 4 and travel to VMI on September 11. The three‑game series with Ohio continues, with the third meeting slated for September 1, 2029, also in Morgantown. The program noted the historical context—West Virginia leads the all‑time series 13‑5 but has never won in Athens, Ohio.

Athletic director Wren Baker confirmed the adjustment, emphasizing the logistical coordination required for the early start. The schedule shift does not affect the Mountaineers' remaining Big 12 and non‑conference commitments.