By Mickey Furfari
For the Times West Virginian
MORGANTOWN —
No two players could be closer on the West Virginia University football team than Noel Devine and Jock Sanders.
They’re like “two peas in a pod” and most certainly vital to the Mountaineers’ chances for what could be one of the best seasons in WVU’s history.
Both were considered by many as good enough to make themselves available for the NFL Draft after last season. But the two decided to return for their senior season, and that was a big boost for their teammates.
Devine (5-foot-8, 180) is from Fort Myers, Fla., and Sanders (5-foot-7, 180) is from St. Petersburg, Fla., — not far from each other. Both were three-year all-state standouts, Devine a tailback at North Fort Myers High and Sanders a runner/receiver at St. Petersburg Catholic High.
Ironically, each is playing the same positions at WVU. Devine set school and county records with 6,842 career yards and 92 touchdowns. He had 2,148 yards and 31 TDs as a senior. Sanders rushed for 1,260 yards and 24 TDs in his last prep season.
Devine, who thinks this year’s WVU team is going to be “special,” and Sanders had never met until they visited the campus here for the first time.
Describing his relationship with Sanders, Devine said:
“It’s just like when you have three brothers, and everyone has a favorite brother. He’s just like my favorite brother.
“My team is my family, and we’re on the same team. He’s just my favorite brother.”
Sanders said their relationship is “undeniable.” He added, “We just had that instant vibe. We’re just always on the same page because we’re around each other so much.
“Whether right or wrong, we’re on the same page.”
Obviously, the two Florida natives of strikingly similar size are bent on having a banner year. Both are on course to receive their bachelor’s degrees.
Devine is mentioned among Heisman Trophy candidates. He rushed for 1,463 yards and 13 touchdowns last year on 241 carries. He also caught 22 passes for 177 yards and one score.
Sanders led all receivers with 72 catches for 688 yards and three TDs. He also rushed 35 times for 175 yards and one touchdown.
Both are on special teams, Devine returning kickoffs and Sanders punts.
Depending on how they fare, this year, these outstanding performers could wind up among the all-time top 10 in WVU offensive categories for their careers. Both also will be remembered for their tight relationship since they joined the Mountaineers four years ago.
