Virginia

The Virginia Cavaliers make their home at Scott Stadium in Charlottesville, VA. The navy blue and orange was founded in 1888. From 1982-2000, George Welsh, winning a share of the ACC title in 1989 and 1995, led the football program with class and distinction. After his retirement in 2000, the reigns were turned over to former Virginia player Al Groh. The program had reached four straight bowl games before last season’s losing record. The Cavaliers should be much improved in 2007.

Returning 19 starters to a 5-7 team, the Virginia Cavaliers hope 2007 is a breakout season for the program. Sophomore quarterback Jameel Sewell showed promise a year ago but must take better care of the ball. Highly touted freshman quarterback Peter Lalich will challenge Sewell for the starting spot. The defense is solid, led by defensive end Chris Long. A fairly soft non-conference schedule and key conference home games leave open the realistic possibility of a 10-win season.

Sep 1 - at Wyoming, 2:00 PM

Sep 8 - vs. Duke, 12:00 PM

Sep 15 - at North Carolina, 12:00 PM

Sep 22 - vs. Georgia Tech, TBA

Sep 29 - vs. Pittsburgh, TBA

Oct 6 - at Middle Tennessee, TBA

Oct 13 - vs. Connecticut, TBA

Oct 20 - at Maryland, TBA

Oct 27 - at NC State, TBA

Nov 3 - vs. Wake Forest, TBA

Nov 10 - at Miami-Florida, TBA

Nov 17 - Open

Nov 24 - vs. Virginia Tech, TBA

Al Groh took over at his alma mater in 2000 after one season as the head coach of the New York Jets. After a 5-7 inaugural season, Groh led the Cavaliers to four straight bowl appearances before a disappointing 2006 campaign ended that streak. Having studied under legendary NFL coach Bill Parcells, Groh has a strong knowledge of the game and should soon have the Cavaliers back in postseason play.

Defense is the strength of this year’s Virginia squad. The unit is loaded with experience and production on every level. The Cavaliers started several freshmen and sophomores last year. The defensive line possesses two studs in senior Chris Long and sophomore Jeffrey Fitzgerald. On offense, sophomore QB Jameel Sewell is a dynamic player. Look for Sewell to utilize junior TE Tom Santi in the passing game.