Both Virginia and West Virginia are sitting pretty at 2-0 right now, but this “Who Was John Denver Really Singing About Bowl” is the real test, the one that tells us who these teams actually are. It’s a massive prove-it game for both squads, with the Cavaliers dominating their early matchups and the Mountaineers sneaking by Coastal Carolina by a touchdown before a 52-7 beatdown of UT Martin. Virginia opened as an 8.5-point favorite, and that line has already jumped to 10.5 points, signaling that Vegas sees a big game coming from the Hoos, even away from Charlottesville.
The Turnover Battle Is Already Getting Wild
If you wanna win these grudge matches, especially when both teams are fighting to prove they’re legit contenders, you *have* to win the turnover battle. Virginia’s defense, led by John Rudzinski, has been absolutely lights out, forcing at least one turnover in 12 of their last 13 games. They’re sitting at a +2 turnover margin in both games this season against NC State and Norfolk State, and their four interceptions are tied for second-most in the entire country. That’s just nasty! Meanwhile, West Virginia has been coughing up the ball, losing one fumble per game so far. Rich Rodriguez’s offense better hold onto that pigskin, because one big mistake could be the catalyst for Virginia’s victory. Keep an eye on Michael Hawkins Jr., West Virginia’s quarterback, who hasn’t thrown an interception yet, but Virginia needs to bring the heat and make him feel it in the backfield.
Force Hawkins to Throw, Period.
Everyone knows Rich Rodriguez wants a run-first offense; it’s practically his coaching DNA. Michael Hawkins Jr. is a great athlete and a tremendous runner. We’re talking ten more carries than pass attempts through West Virginia’s first two games! He’s clearly way more comfortable with the ball in his hands and space to run than he is letting it fly. Virginia’s top priority this Saturday needs to be forcing Hawkins to prove himself with his arm. Put them in obvious passing situations, make him drop back, and make him uncomfortable. Hawkins isn’t incapable, but he’s less confident throwing, and Virginia has to expose that weakness. Stay disciplined when he does throw, because even a less confident passer can burn you if you aren’t ready.
Virginia won’t get all the answers about their CFP dark horse hopes or if West Virginia is a legit Big 12 contender, but by the final buzzer, we’ll sure as heck have a much better idea of who these teams are. This isn’t just a game; it’s a statement, and Virginia needs to make it loud in the Queen City.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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