West Virginia head coach B.J. Depew is quite excited about his backfield candidates for the OVAC Rudy Mumley All-Star Football Game, which is scheduled for July 24 at Wheeling Island Stadium.

And who can blame him?

Depew has announced the options for quarterback and running back and there are plenty of game changers in the mix.

“The guys we plan to use at quarterback and running back are like a dream for Coach (Chris) Kiedaisch and our offensive staff because we want to spread the field and take advantage of our athletes in space. We see our running backs as special athletes who can run and catch the ball.

“And we plan to use both quarterbacks,” Depew continued. “We’re familiar with both kids, at quarterback, and I believe both have a chance to really shine in this game.”

The quarterback candidates are Linsly’s Hunter Kelley and Wheeling Park’s Beau Heller, while the running back candidates are University’s Eliki Barner, John Marshall’s Alex Burton, Wheeling Park’s Stevie Mitchell and Wheeling Central’s Jordan Waterhouse.

Here’s a capsule look at the players:

ELIKI BARNER, University — This standout ball carrier was one of the go-to-guys for Coach John Kelley’s team.

Barner earned All-OVAC as a senior as well as All-TRAC.

Eliki, who is the son of Sylvester and Monica Barner, is undecided about his future plans.

ALEX BURTON, John Marshall — This former Monarch was a steady option for Coach Jason Willis’ team the last few years.

The 5-11, 143 pounder carried the ball 113 times for 887 yards and scored 9 toucodnws. He also caught 3 passes for 63 yards and scored once.

Alex is the son of Robert and Denise Burton of Moundsville.

BEAU HELLER, Wheeling Park — This former Patriot had a brilliant 2020 season directing the offense for Coach Chris Daugherty’s team.

The 5-11, 180 pounder completed an astonishing 125-of-170 passes for 1,684 yards and 23 touchdowns. He also logged three rushing touchdowns. Heller’s 73.5 competition percentage was a school record. He also set the school mark for touchdown passes in a single game at five and touchdowns accounted for in a single game at six.

Heller’s fine season didn’t go unnoticed. He was named First-Team All-OVAC, All-Valley and All-TRAC. He was an Honorable Mention All-State selection as well as a finalist for the Big 22 award.

On top of football, Heller was a mainstay for the Park basketball team and took part in the OVAC All-Star Game. He also volunteers wit Special Olympics.

Beau, who plans to attend West Liberty and continue his football career, is the son of Kevin and Kathleen Heller.

HUNTER KELLEY, Linsly — This former Cadet had an impressive career orchestrating Depew’s offense.

Kelley finished 209-of-367 for 2,954 yards and 26 touchdowns through the air. He also rushed 132 times for 1,036 yards and 11 more touchdowns.

Kelley was twice named All-OVAC and listed among the Big 22 finalists.

Hunter, who is the son of Craig and Geni Kelley, plans to attend Otterbein.

STEVIE MITCHELL, Wheeling Park — This Patriots product was one of several home-run hitters at Daugherty’s disposal last season.

The 5-7, 170 pounder logged time at running back and as a slot back. He finished with 1,255 yards on 163 carries and 15 touchdowns. He also caught 18 passes for 134 yards and scored once.

Mitchell was a two-time, second-team All-State selection. He was also listed as All-OVAC and was named TRAC Player of the Year.

Along with football, Mitchell was a standout wrestler for the Patriots, winning the 2021 state championship.

Stevie, who is the son of Steve Mitchell and Christie Hyde, plans to attend Wheeling University.

JORDAN WATERHOUSE, Wheeling Central — This former Maroon Knight was a key contributor for many seasons for Coach Mike Young’s squad.

The 6-1, 190 pounder was the primary ball carrier as a senior. He rushed 130 times for 1,005 yards and 13 touchdowns en route to earning First Team All-State. He was also an All-OVAC and All-Valley selection.

Away from athletics, Waterhouse shines just as brightly. He was a member of the National Honor Society, Wheeling Central honor roll and Spanish Honor Society. He’s also active in the community, working with the canned food drive, as a member of Drug Free Club of America and he’s a Central Shadow Program Ambassador.

Jordan, who is the son of John and Jessica Waterhouse, plans to attend Denison University.