Following Saturday’s home victory over Duke University, the UVa Cavaliers advance to a 4-1 record and continue their scintillating form. Here are 4 reasons you should be excited about this season – if you weren’t already! Side note – if you weren’t already buzzed, then there’s something wrong with you.
1. We put the ‘L’ in ‘Carolina’
This weekend saw one of the most impressive UVa performances of the season, as the ‘Hoos came back from a 14-7 deficit in the 2nd quarter to defeat Duke 28-21. This Duke football is no joke; they were undefeated through their first four games and have been regarded by some as favorites to win the conference. However, their success has been hindered by poor quarterback play, with Daniel Jones completing just 33% of his passes, and registering a low QBR of 24.6. The Blue Devils’ inability to convert on third down also factored into their slow offense. But UVa’s all you can eat defense also factored in Duke’s faliure to come back into the game late in the 4th quarter.
2. ‘Hoo gon stop me?
Uva’s football team has been building momentum with three consecutive victories against formidable opposition (except UConn). The deconstruction of one ‘Boise State’ team a couple of weeks ago was followed up by another exceptional performance. If UVa sustain this success the sky is the limit for what many had predicted to be a difficult season. We’ve already won more games than last year, right? And did anyone else see the sun come out during the 4th quarter? I believe in omens.
3. The Name’s Benkert…Kurt Benkert
Irrespective of your views on his name, I think we’ll all agree that the senior quarterback has been in impressive form through the opening 5 games of the season. Saturday’s performance was not his finest by any means, however he was still able to throw for three touchdowns to seal the victory and make Virginia ‘bright and gay’ again. Maybe the pick 6 during the second quarter was ugly, but Benkert showed strength of character and resilience to rebound from this and complete the sacking of Duke. His numbers for the season aren’t bad either: 13 touchdowns and 3 interceptions, over 1400 passing yards and a 65% completion rate epitomise what has been a convincing start to the season. It remains clear that Number 6‘s health and form will be central to everything the ‘Hoos can achieve this year.
4. We’ve got UNC next
If you hate UNC – which you probably do – then you’ll be thrilled to discover that the ‘Hoos meet the Tar Heels this Saturday at Kenan Memorial Stadium, Chapel Hill. This is our chance to go 5-1, a record which few could have foreseen. You’ll be able to watch this online on CBS, ESPN, or why not head to a local bar to watch the game? Fill the Hill is hosting a live viewing at Boylan Heights, from 3-7 pm. In a season many anticipated as being challenging, the ‘Hoos keep making noise. Let’s hope we can all get loud on Saturday, wherever you are!
