Jeff Braun the likely replacement at center

NEW YORK -- West Virginia Coach Dana Holgorsen confirmed center Joe Madsen did not make the trip to New York City because he is academically ineligible for the Pinstripe Bowl.

Holgorsen would not say who will replace Madsen in Saturday's game against Syracuse. But quarterback Geno Smith said he has faith in guard Jeff Braun to fill in for Madsen.

Holgorsen spoke just before the opening interviews of bowl week in a room at Yankee Stadium.

Holgorsen: “Disappointed that he didn’t take care of business. The expectation for our guys is to go to class, get good grades and leave West Virginia with a good quality education. Joey fell short of that and we’re disappointed he did.”

Smith: “Braun is a guy who has pretty much started at every position on the offensive line. We expect him to carry his weight as he always does."

Madsen had started 50 games in his career, only once missing a game before - the Champs Sports Bowl - which was two years ago for a similar issue.