Challenging Season Ahead for the Virginia Cavaliers: A 2024 Preview
Charlottesville, VA - As the 2024 season kicks off, the Virginia Cavaliers football team, under head coach Tony Elliott, is looking to bounce back and establish a stronger identity in the ACC. Entering his third year at the helm, Elliott aims to revitalize a program navigating a rebuilding phase. The Cavaliers will rely on a mix of emerging talent and veteran leadership, with players like quarterback Tony Muskett and wide receiver Malachi Fields expected to step up. Despite facing a challenging schedule, Virginia is determined to make significant improvements on both sides of the ball. Fans in Charlottesville are hopeful that this season will show growth and renewed competitiveness as the Cavaliers seek to make a return to bowl eligibility.
Offense Preview:
It all starts with the offensive line. They were not good last year and affected the entire offense. They have four starters returning and gained Drake Metcalf from UCF so they should be an improved unit this season. Whether it’s Muskett or Colandrea starting at QB, they must play better. There were way too many turnovers a season ago, but with improved offensive line play, they should turn it around. Losing Malik Washington to the NFL hurts, but they have some replacements from the portal to use. I expect the Cavalier offense to be much improved.
Defense Preview:
Last season, the Virginia defense only recorded 11 sacks. The pass rush has to be better this season, no matter how talented the secondary is. Creating havoc in the backfield is the number one key for this team if they want to improve. Despite the poor defensive line, the secondary is filled with talented, experienced players. They have the potential to be one of the best, if not the best, secondary in the ACC.
Top Returning Players:
Jonas Sanker S/DB - According to PFF, Sanker is T6 as the highest-graded returning ACC safeties. He was the leading tackler with 107 tackles and had 11 pass deflections. Sanker is going to be one of the few elite players in the secondary.
Will Bettridge K - Bettridge got some work last year. He went 18/21 (85.7%) on his field goal attempts and converted his longest field goal attempt at 46 yards. Going 100% from PAT is exactly what you want from your specialist.
Malachi Fields WR - Fields is predicted to be third-team All-ACC, according to Phil Steele. He isn’t getting a lot of media attention so he’s hungry to get the spotlight. It wouldn’t surprise me if he can surpass the 1,000+ receiving yard mark after putting up 811 receiving yards last season.
Top Incoming Transfers:
Corey Thomas Jr. HYBRID - The transfer from Akron is not shy whatsoever. He cycled between playing on the defensive line, linebacker, and safety. He is ranked above Sanker as the number four safety in the ACC, according to PFF. Needless to say, he will be making plays all over the field.
Kendren Smith DB - The transfer from Penn has landed himself as the second-ranked cornerback in the ACC, according to PFF. He served as a team captain and will continue his leadership role at Virginia.
Chris Tyree WR - Tyree will look to replace what Malik Washington did last season. They have very similar styles of play, quick and shifty with great hands. The former Notre Dame player will be an elite playmaker this season.
Top Incoming Freshman:
Tyler Simmons DT - The three-star defensive lineman will provide much-needed depth. He has the physical traits to get some playing time his freshman season as he stands 6 '4 260 and can run a 4.6 40-yard dash.
Top Departures:
Malik Washington WR - Washington was the sole focus of the Cavaliers offense. He caught 110 receptions for 1,426 yards and 9 touchdowns. He is an incredible athlete and Virginia will surely miss him.
Under-the-Radar Players (Sleepers):
Kobe Pace RB - We saw what Pace can do at the running back position. He had several explosive plays at Clemson but just didn’t have the same effect at Virginia. I’m expecting Pace to turn it around this year.
Win Total Prediction:
The Virginia Cavaliers 2024 win total is listed as 4.5. They finished with the second-worst record in the conference last season and could be in store for another underwhelming season. They have the sixth-ranked hardest schedule in the ACC this year and it does them no favors. Therefore, I am taking the under on the Cavs win total. They have a brutal last seven games to end the season, kicking it off at home against a dangerous Louisville squad. Then they have to travel to Clemson, at home against UNC, at Pittsburgh, at Notre Dame, SMU, and then the season finale at Virginia Tech. It’s going to be another tough year for the Wahoos.
