ATS Sports Blog

2009 College Football Predictions

Virginia Cavaliers

2008 Record: (5-7, 3-5)
Coach: Al Groh (56-44 at Virginia, 82-84 overall)
Off. Coordinator: Gregg Brandon (1st year)
Def. Coordinator: Al Groh (9th year)
Returning Starters: 13 (6 offense, 5 defense, punter, kicker)
Ret. Starting Quarterback: No

Offense: Al Groh is back as head coach at Virginia for the ninth season, but there might not be a 10th if he has another 5-7 season. There are changes this season, as Mike Groh, Al’s son, stepped down as offensive coordinator after Virginia finished 114th nationally (16.1ppg) in 2008. Former Bowling Green head coach Gregg Brandon takes over as the offensive coordinator and has installed a spread offense. Fortunately, Jameel Sewell returns as starting quarterback, after missing last season because he was academically ineligible. He’ll be complemented by senior Vic Hall (5-9, 190), who may even starter after showing explosiveness last year in a Wildcat role against Virginia Tech in the 2008 finale. At running back, senior Mikell Simpson is back after rushing for just 262 yards last year. The top receiver is sophomore Jared Green (12 for 144 yards), which shows you the inexperience that is returning. On the offensive line, the Cavaliers return four starters including RT Will Barker (6-7, 315).

Defense: Groh’s defense will need the linebacking corps to hold up after losing three good ones in Antonio Appleby, Jon Cooper and Clint Sintim. Junior Denzel Burrell is the lone returning starter. On the defensive line, Nick Jenkins (6-3, 285) returns, but they have to improve that rush defense (149.6ypg), which finished 72nd in the nation. The secondary is the team’s strength, led by senior Chris Cook, who missed last season due to academics. Ras-I Dowling is back at the other corner and led the team in interceptions last year with three. Former All-American safety Anthony Poindexter takes over as secondary coach, which should help. On special teams, Groh hired former Kansas State head coach Ron Prince to take over as coach.

Outlook: Could be a rough year for Groh and company. A lot depends on the quarterback situation with Sewell and Hall. They appear to be perfect fits for the spread offense. The running game has to improve though and the inexperience at receiver is a concern. The defense will need at least decent production from the linebackers.

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• Cavalier Flashback: Anthony Poindexter Continues To Inspire Virginia (bleacherreport.com)
• Former K-State coach Prince rejoins Virginia staff (cbssports.com)

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