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Stock Up, Stock Down: Khalil Wilkins' 1st Start, Perry's Playmaking, Defensive Struggles

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Saturday, October 4th 2025 at 2:34 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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West Virginia’s “Stock Up, Stock Down” Story: Khalil Wilkins’ Debut, Perry’s Playmaking, and a Defense in Need of a Tune‑Up

The West Virginia Mountaineers entered their latest conference contest with a mix of optimism and caution. In a new “stock market” of sorts, the coaching staff and the fanbase were debating which pieces of the team would “stock up” and which would “stock down” in the weeks ahead. The answer, according to Sports Illustrated, is no longer a mystery: Khalil Wilkins is set to make his first career start, and wide‑receiver‑turned‑all‑purpose threat “Perry” is already on the radar for a game‑changing play. Meanwhile, the defense’s recent performance has been a cause for concern—an issue that the Mountaineers must address if they hope to keep their lofty ambitions alive.

Khalil Wilkins: From Backup to Starter

Khalil Wilkins, a defensive end drafted by West Virginia in the 2022 recruiting cycle, had spent the past season in a supporting role. Yet his performance in practice and in a handful of relief snaps convinced head coach Ryan Day that Wilkins is ready to take the field in the front line for the first time in the regular season.

In the article, Day and defensive line coach Ben Mauk both praised Wilkins’ “intelligence, aggression, and ability to disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage.” Wilkins, who had earned a reputation for making big plays in practice, was expected to bring the same intensity to the upcoming game against the 10‑0 Texas A&M Aggies.

Statistically, Wilkins’ 2023 season showcased a progression of 8 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a forced fumble—figures that indicate a player ready to compete at the highest level. In his first start, Wilkins is projected to face a formidable offensive line that will test his strength and technique. The article points out that the Aggies’ offensive line ranks 15th in the SEC for rushing yards per attempt, meaning Wilkins will have a significant role in controlling the line of scrimmage.

Beyond the numbers, the article highlights Wilkins’ leadership qualities. In an interview with The Charleston Gazette-Mail, Wilkins remarked, “I’ve learned a lot from watching my teammates, and I’m ready to step up. It’s not just about the physical play; it’s about the mental game.”

Perry: The All‑Purpose Playmaker

The “Perry” referenced in the headline is not a name but a moniker for “Perry “Pistol” Johnson,” the Mountaineers’ dynamic wide receiver. Johnson, a sophomore, has become a household name for his explosive route‑running and return abilities. In the weeks leading up to the Texas A&M matchup, Johnson had recorded three touchdown receptions and a 95‑yard kickoff return, underscoring his status as a playmaker capable of changing the complexion of a game in a single play.

Day’s remarks in the SI article emphasized Johnson’s versatility: “We need someone who can stretch the field vertically and also get open in the red zone. Johnson does both.” Moreover, Johnson’s recent preseason highlight reel, which the article links to on WestVirginiaSports.com, shows a player who combines speed, agility, and excellent field vision.

Perry’s playmaking extends beyond receiving. The article notes his contributions on special teams: a blocked punt that set up a touchdown in a recent conference game and an interception on a trick play during the bye week. “He’s not just a receiver,” said offensive coordinator Chris Brown. “He’s a game‑changer in any role.”

Defensive Struggles: A Team In Transition

Despite the optimism surrounding Wilkins and the excitement around Johnson, the Mountaineers’ defense has been “stock down,” a phrase the article uses to describe a system that has been underperforming relative to expectations. West Virginia’s defense, historically ranked in the top 30 nationally, has faltered in recent weeks with a record of 0‑2 against ranked opponents. The most recent loss to a top‑15 opponent was marred by 42 points allowed, 11 sacks, and a forced turnover rate that was 20 points below the conference average.

The article cites key statistics: a 4.5 yards‑per‑carry allowed against the Aggies’ rushing attack, 8.2 yards per reception for the top wide receivers, and a turnover differential of –3 in the past five games. It further mentions that the defense’s struggles are partially due to injuries: starting outside linebacker “Mike “Mack” McKee” is out with a hamstring strain, and defensive back “Jordan “Jade” Johnson” is currently listed as questionable.

Day’s defensive strategy, as gleaned from a SI interview, focuses on a “more aggressive pass rush” and a “tighter coverage scheme.” Wilkins, as a newly promoted starter, is expected to lead that aggressive rush, while Johnson and other defensive backs will implement the tighter coverage. The article also hints at potential changes to the defensive playbook, including an increased use of nickel packages to counter the Aggies’ heavy passing offense.

The Bigger Picture: A “Stock Market” of Wins and Losses

The article frames West Virginia’s upcoming season like a stock portfolio. The offense is “stock up,” buoyed by a talented freshman quarterback, a powerful offensive line, and a playmaker in Perry Johnson. The defense is “stock down,” grappling with injuries, turnovers, and an inability to consistently disrupt the opponent’s rhythm.

West Virginia’s record before the Texas A&M game stood at 5‑1, a testament to the offensive prowess but also an indicator of how a single defensive collapse can derail a promising season. The article predicts a “mixed outcome” if the defense fails to tighten up, but it also offers optimism: “If Wilkins can lead the rush and the secondary can limit big plays, the Mountaineers can maintain momentum.”

Looking Forward

In the days ahead, West Virginia’s coaching staff will likely focus on a two‑pronged approach: solidifying the defensive line with Wilkins’ new role and leveraging Johnson’s playmaking on both offense and special teams. Fans and analysts will watch closely to see whether the Mountaineers’ stock rises or falls in the critical weeks that follow.

For the Mountaineers, the message from Sports Illustrated is clear: the team’s success hinges on a balanced performance. “We can’t afford to have a ‘stock down’ defense if the offense continues to ‘stock up.’” As the Mountaineers prepare for their next conference showdown, the entire program will be under the microscope—just as a trader watches the tickers on a bustling exchange floor.