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West Virginia joins turnover prop parade: Origin of the coal miner’s helmet

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Since Miami debuted its turnover chain, college football defenses from every time zone have incorporated sideline gimmicks ranging from baronial to bare bones.

Belts (Alabama), beads (Tulane), trash cans (Tennessee), planks (Kennesaw State) and robes (Memphis). There’s even a Boise State throne.

West Virginia joined the prop parade with its coal miner’s helmet.

Free safety Kenny Robinson donned the hat during his two-interception first half against Texas Tech, and cornerback Keith Washington wore it well after his game-clinching pick-six.

Fans had long been suggesting various ways WVU’s defense could join the trend.