GAME PREVIEW: VIRGINIA
On PaPer
BY BRYAN DRISKELL
VIRGINIA RUNNING GAME VS.
NOTRE DAME RUN DEFENSE
During a three-game stretch in the middle of the
2014 season, Virginia rushed for a combined 671
yards. It seemed the Cavaliers had finally got their
ground attack on track after struggling to run the
ball in the two previous seasons. That production
turned out to be fools' gold, with UVa averaging just
98.5 yards per game while losing five of its final six
contests.
The Cavaliers are hoping former five-star recruit
Taquan Mizzell can finally take over at running back.
Mizzell has rushed for just 464 yards and averaged
4.3 yards per carry during his first two seasons, but
has the big-play ability to provide Virginia with a
much-needed spark.
The Irish enter the season with far greater depth
and experience, and most importantly much better
health than they had down the stretch in 2014. De-
fensive coordinator Brian VanGorder's scheme is de-
signed to slow down the opposition's ground attack,
which will be its primary focus against the Cavaliers.
Advantage: Notre Dame
VIRGINIA PASSING GAME VS.
NOTRE DAME PASS DEFENSE
Throwing the football has been an issue for Vir-
ginia throughout head coach Mike London's tenure,
with rankings of just 87th, 119th, 82nd and 90th
nationally in passing efficiency the last four seasons.
Junior Matt Johns takes over at quarterback after
throwing for 1,109 yards and eight scores in spot
duty last year. He made three starts and led Virginia
Last fall, senior wide receiver Canaan Severin notched team highs in receptions (42), receiving yards (578)
and touchdown catches (five).
PHOTO COURTESY UVA MEDIA RELATIONS
