Virginia football is facing significant challenges heading into its season finale against Virginia Tech. In a recent 33-7 loss to No. 13 SMU, the Cavaliers lost Xavier Brown for the rest of the season due to a broken collarbone. Brown had been the team’s top performer with 6.1 yards per carry. Additionally, starting running back Kobe Pace is uncertain for the game against Virginia Tech, as he’s day-to-day with a knee injury. This leaves the team relying on younger backs like Noah Vaughn, who took on a larger role after the injuries. Vaughn, averaging 4.4 yards per carry, is ready for increased responsibilities and emphasizes the importance of pass protection, which the team struggled with during the SMU game, resulting in quarterback Anthony Colandrea taking nine sacks. Along with the running back injuries, the team also dealt with injuries to left guard Noah Josey (shoulder) and cornerback Kempton Shine (foot), both of whom are day-to-day.
The Cavaliers nearly made a big play on special teams when punter Daniel Sparks’ kick forced SMU’s Roderick Daniels Jr. to retreat. After being tackled in the end zone by Jonas Sanker and others, it looked like Virginia had scored a safety, but officials ruled that Daniels’ momentum had taken him back to the 3-yard line where he caught the ball.
With just 173 total yards of offense, Virginia’s performance was its worst of the season. To become bowl eligible, the Cavaliers must win against Virginia Tech, despite their depleted roster.
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