The Wahoo Weekly

THE WAHOO WEEKLY

2012 Virginia Cavaliers Football

The 2012 season is here and there is a sense of optimism on the campus of the University of Virginia. The Cavaliers are coming off an 8-5 season (5-3 in the ACC) that culminated with a 43-24 loss to Auburn in the Chick-fil-A Bowl but the feeling is that the program is heading in the right direction. Head Coach Steel Pitt takes over the program after several successful seasons in upstate NY with the Syracuse Orange. The Cavaliers have upper class experience at key positions, speed weapons at the skilled positions and a favorable league schedule that does not include Florida State or Clemson in cross over games.

SCHEDULE / RESULTS (14-0 Overall / 9-0 Conference)
BCS National Champions

Week 1: at Missouri (W 21-17)
Week 2: vs Ole Miss (W 35-14)
Week 3: at Georgia Tech (W 42-24)
Week 4: vs Ohio State (W 17-3)
Week 5: at Florida (W 23-7)
Week 6: at Duke (W 56-46)
Week 7: vs Maryland (W 46-45) (Homecoming)
Week 8: vs Wake Forest (W 41-10)
Week 9: BYE
Week 10: at NC State (W 38-35)
Week 11: vs Miami (W 38-21)
Week 12: vs UNC (W 63-24) (Senior Day)
Week 12: at Virginia Tech (W 31-14)

ACC Championship Game: vs. Florida State (W 30-10)

BCS National Championship Game: vs. Kansas State (W 49-30)

Red indicates Conference Game
Blue indicates User Game

Outlook: OFFENSE

Key Players: LT Oday Aboushi, TE Colter Phillips, RB Perry Jones



Head Coach Steel Pitt has become adept at running a Pro-Style offense geared towards a 2 Back running attack and conservative play from the QB in the passing game. However, even Coach Steel Pitt has admitted that there is a lot of talent on this offense, particularly at the skilled position and to confine that talent to a 2RB, 1TE, 2WR sets may not be the best way to utilize this talent. When facing the Cavaliers expect to see 3 and 4 WR sets, designed QB runs and plays that get the ball into the hands of its playmakers quickly so that they can do what they do best … make plays. At the helm will be transfer QB Phillip Sims who transferred from Alabama, was ruled eligible to play this season and was named the starter during Spring Ball. Sims was a Virginia HS star and one of the most highly rated recruits coming out of High School. Phillip Sims has all the tools to run the offense that Coach Steel Pitt wants as he can run the Read Option, make all the throws in the passing game and has the legs to make something happen when plays break down. Sims has the benefit of having 2 of the best bookends in college football with RT Morgan Moses and future top 10 NFL draft pick LT Oday Aboushi. The backfield for the Cavaliers is small in stature but big in production as both RB Perry Jones and RB Kevin Parks stand only 5 feet 8 inches tall but they can both send defenders to the trainer with broken ankles. While defenders are busy chasing around Jones and Perry they better not get lazy in the secondary as the Cavaliers will line up with 3 WR that all possess speed and hands in Tim Smith, Darius Jennings and Dominique Terrell. They say a QB’s best friend, besides a quality LT, may be a reliable TE in the passing game and Virginia possess that and then some. TE Colter Phillips may be one of the best in the country. He’s a willing blocker who really excels in the passing game. The Cavaliers offense looks to have a big year in 2012 as they have skill and depth at the skilled positions. If QB Phillip Sims can keep turnovers at a minimum the Virginia offense has a chance to be the best in the ACC Coastal Division as they should be able to gain big yards both on the ground and through the air.

Outlook: DEFENSE

Key Players: LB Steve Greer, LB LaRoy Reynolds, CB Demetrious Nicholson



While the offense looks to be explosive this season, the defense should be stout and capable. The front 7 is formidable especially at the LB spot. LB Steve Greer is the senior leader of the defense and gets after it in the running game. The Cavaliers should be fine against the run but the real questions are vs the pass. The Cavaliers have talent on the back end but it is all young and inexperienced. All of the Cavaliers CB’s are Freshmen and Sophomores, while Junior FS Rijo Walker is the elder statesman in the secondary.

Outlook: Overall

Things are looking good for Virginia and they are heading in the right direction. Last year was a big stepping stone as they earned a bid to the Chick-fil-A Bowl but expectations are greater for this year’s squad. The offense will be explosive and high scoring and it may need to be if the Cavaliers cannot stop opponents passing attacks. If they don’t get swelled heads because of the high expectations and focus for each game I expect this team to be in Charlotte for the ACC Championship Game at the end of the season.

CLASS OF 2013 COMMITMENTS

**** OLB Joe Davis
**** OT Tony Clayton
**** DE Brock White
**** CB Hiram Coe
**** WR John McKenzie
*** WR Matt Kenney
*** OLB Anthony Henley
*** OLB Tom Williams
*** OT Eric Rhodes
*** OG Willie Bright
*** TE Jason Fowler
*** OLB Terry Edwards
*** OLB Shane Goodard

ROSTER OVERVIEW

OFFENSE

QB

The Cavaliers look to be solid at the QB spot with sophomore starter Phillip Sims and young talent behind him. Junior Michael Rocco is the most tenured QB on the roster and was a starter last season. David Watford is speedy sophomore who Coach Steel Pitt believes is more than capable of running the offense if called upon. Don’t look for the Cavs to search hard for a QB unless a stud comes calling them.

RB

Perry Jones is a senior and will be gone next season. Sophomore Kevin Parks should be in line to start next season but the depth is thin. Look for Virginia to target at least one RB to compete for a backup role next season.

FB

Starter Zach Swanson is only a sophomore but the talk in Charlottesville is that the 6’6” FB will make the switch next season to TE. Still, don’t expect UVA to target any FB as he is backed up by 2 freshmen.

WR

The Cavaliers have good young depth at the wideout spot and speed to go with it. Tim Smith is the lone junior in a cast of sophomores. I wouldn’t expect to see the Cavaliers pursue too many WR but I also wouldn’t be surprised to see them look to bring in a speed guy as you can always find room on the field for speed.

TE

The top two TE on the depth chart will be gone next year and the remaining guys on the roster are mostly blockers, which is one of the reasons why FB Zach Swanson may make the switch next season to TE. I expect the Cavaliers to target at least one receiving type TE to add to the mix.

OT

This may be the first real area of concern for the Cavs as they are sure to lose their starting LT and there is a rumbling that starting RT Morgan Moses (Jr) may look to enter the NFL Draft if he has a good season. That would not only leave UVA looking for 2 new starters but it would kill their depth and leave them with only 2 OT on the roster. Expect the Cavs to pursue the OT position heavy.

OG

The Guard spot is much brighter than the OT spot for the future as the only senior is a backup but don’t be surprised if Coach Steel Pitt goes shopping for at least one Guard to mold for the future.

OC

Center could use an upgrade from a quality stand point but the 2 men holding down the fort now are a freshmen and sophomore so there is room for growth there.

DEFENSE

DE

UVA will lose their starting RE but freshmen Eli Harold is getting playing time this year in rotation and will step into the starter role next season. UVA should be fine here but pass rushers are always welcome.

DT

UVA will only have 3 DT on the roster next season so adding 1, possibly 2, run stuffers in the middle is key.

OLB

See DT situation … ditto.

MLB

The Cavaliers will lose their senior leader (MLB Steve Greer) to the NFL draft next season and will be left with only 2 MLB on the roster. Coach Steel Pitt has confidence that sophomore Henry Coley can become the starter but there isn’t much depth behind him.

CB

Similar to their WR situation, the Cavs are loaded with 5 CB all freshmen and sophomores. And just like WR, don’t be surprised if UVA still targets a cover man as you can never have too many cover guys in today’s pass happy game.

FS

Starter Rijo Walker is a junior and could return but even if he doesn’t there are 3 sophomores behind him waiting for playing time.

SS

All 3 SS on the roster will be returning next year.

SPECIAL TEAMS

K

No need.

P

No need.

Goalline Stand Lifts UVA over Mizzou



The fans in Columbia, Missouri were treated to quite a ball game in Week 1, unfortunately the home crowd left with a bitter taste after the Virginia Cavaliers defeated the Missouri Tigers 21-17. The Cavaliers got off to a shaky start as transfer QB Phillip Sims threw an INT on the team's opening series. Virginia would break open the scoring with a 10 yard TD run by RB Perry Jones on the first play of the second quarter. Phillip Sims calmed down and extended the Cavs lead to 14-0 on a screen pass to WR David Jennings who took the quick pass and turned it into a 41 yard scoring play. Virginia was seemingly in control of the ball game up 14-0 in the thrid quarter when Columbia mounted a comeback which started with a pick 6 by R. Ponder. A 30 yard FG by Barrow cut the lead to 14-10 heading into the 4th quarter. After forcing a UVA punt, the Tigers appeared to be in a bind as they were backed up to their own 13 after a solid boot by UVA, however QB James Franklin felt otherwise. Missouri came out in a spread 4WR set and Franklin called his own number as he burst through the line and scampered 87 yards for the go ahead score. Give the Cavaliers credit though as they remained composed on the road and methodically moved the ball down the field. RB Perry Jones took an option pitch 29 yards down to 1 and scored the go ahead TD on the next play. It was now the Tigers turn to show that they weren't ready to throw in the towel. Franklin marched the Tigers right down the field using the clock and ensuring that this would be the last drive. Franklin hit his WR over the middle for a big gain down to 5 yard line. On first down the Tigers ran for 2 yards. On second down, Franklin threw into the flats and it was nearly picked off by the CB. The Tigers ran again on third down and gained nothing but there was a holding call. Coach Steel Pitt gambled and elected to decline the penalty rather than give teh Tigers an extra down. The strategy paid off as Franklin called a QB run on fourth down and was stopped on the 2 yard line by the Virginia DLine. Virginia would go on to run out the clock and secure the victory.

FINAL SCORE
Virginia Cavaliers 21
Missouri Tigers 17

PLAYER OF THE GAME
RB Perry Jones
17 Rushes
150 Yards
2 TD

Virginia Cavaliers Football Recruiting Update

The Virginia Cavaliers got their first two commitments regarding the Class of 2013 over the weekend when 3 star OL Eric Rhodes and Willie Bright gave their commitments to come to Charlottesville next season. The Cavaliers desperately needed to sign an OT so it’s good that they found a quality guy early in the process.

*** OT Eric Rhodes (#68 Ranked Tackle)
6’7” 290 lbs.
Gresham Park, GA



Eric chose Virginia over Florida and UCF. The scouting report on Eric is that he is just as effective in the run game as he is in the passing game. He is a big guy at 6’7” who still bends his knees and blocks with anger.

*** OG Willie Bright 48 (#48 Ranked Guard)
6’5” 272 lbs.
Bessemer City, NC



Willie was drew interest from Wake Forest and Purdue but ultimately chose to play with the Cavaliers next season. Willie is very similar to Eric in that the scouting report says that he blocks just as effectively in pass protection as he does when road grading in the run game. The one thing you will notice with Willie is his quick first step as he has a very fast burst for a big man. He’s the kind of Guard that can get around the edge when pulling on run plays.

Sims Sizzles In Return To Virginia



QB Phillip Sims admitted to being more nervous than usual before the opening kick of UVA’s Week 2 matchup with the Ole Miss Rebels. Sims, who was a HS star at Oscar Smith HS in VA, was playing football on home soil for the first time since transferring from Alabama in the offseason. If he was truly nervous it wasn’t apparent as he put on a show for the UVA faithful in leading the Cavaliers to a 35-14 win over Ole Miss.

Following the recovery of a muffed punt, the Cavaliers were set up with great field position midway through the first quarter. QB Phillip Sims got UVA on the board early with an 18 yard strike to TE Colter Phillips. That seemingly helped Sims shake his nerves as he helped UVA put this game out of reach 28-0 by halftime with 3 more TD drives (2TD passes and 1TD rush) in the second quarter. Sims would add a 76 yard bomb to WR Dominique Terrell on UVA’s first drive of the second half to give UVA a 35-0 lead.

The Virginia defense also put on a show holding Ole Miss QB’s to 8/20 passing for 76 yards and forcing 2INT (3 turnovers total). The Rebels were also unable to get anything significant going on the ground as Senior MLB Steve Greer and his mates held Ole Miss to 63 yards on 21 carries. Virginia will have to bring that kind of defense focus and stoutness against the run with them next week as they travel to Georgia Tech in their ACC opener. Ole Miss, meanwhile, will have a week off to lick their wounds and regroup before their home opener against the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

FINAL SCORE
Ole Miss Rebels 14
Virginia Cavaliers 35

PLAYER OF THE GAME
QB Phillip Sims
9/12 for 230 Yards
4TD / 0INT
8 Rushes
58 Yards
1 Rush TD

Ok... Now I see that I have to step my game up. Great stuff man.

UVA Soars To Victory Over Georgia Tech



Coming into the 2012 season, there was plenty of reason to be excited about the potential of ths UVA offense. Experts believed the Cavaliers offense could be one of the most explosive in the ACC and those fireworks were on display in the ACC opener versus Georgia Tech. QB Phillip Sims was near perfect completing 13 of 14 passes for 263 yards and 4TD without throwing a pick. For the second straight game Sims threw for 4 scores and rushed for one. WR Darius Jennings was on the receiving end of 2 TD passes as he caught 5 passes total for 120 yards. The defense gave up yards to the Yellow Jackets but kept them off the scoreboard early building a 14-0 first quarter lead. Virginia lead 35-17 at the half and 42-17 before the starters were pulled to start the fourth. Virginia goes to 3-0 and will host the Ohio State Buckeyes next week.

FINAL SCORE
Virginia Cavaliers 42
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 24

PLAYER OF THE GAME
QB Phillip Sims
13/14 for 263 Yards
4TD / 0INT
1 Rush TD

Virginia Cavaliers Football Recruiting Update

The Virginia Cavaliers added a four star WR to their list of commitments over the weekend when John McKenzie gave made his intentions known that he would be attending UVA in the fall.

**** WR John McKenzie (#12 Ranked Wide Receiver)
6’3” 194 lbs.
Marysville, MI



The physical numbers on John don’t wow you and jump off the paper, but the book on him is he may not do any one thing great, but he does a lot of things very good. He’s not a blazer but he runs great routes and has enough in the jets to consistently get open. John’s 6’3” frame will add height to a WR core that desperately lacks that. John has the potential to be a very good possession receiver that moves the chains and is a big target in the red zone.

On The Sidelines

This week’s game is big, not just because Ohio State will be the opponent, but also because the Cavaliers will be hosting 10 recruits over the weekend. Here is a list of those that will be in attendance:

Position / Name (Rank)
***** DT Nate Hendrix (#1)
***** ATH Gary Jacobs (#7)
**** OLB Joe Davis (#7)
**** OLB Simeon Jones (#1)
**** DE Julius Wilson (#9)
*** CB Hiram Poe (#21)
*** OLB Terry Edwards (#33)
*** TE Jason Fowler (#43)
*** OLB Anthony Henley (#49)
*** MLB Brett Bryant (#11)

Virginia Cavaliers Quarterly Update
First Quarter Report

In the NFL, it is said that coaches like to break the season down into quarters when judging progress. Well, being the professional outfit that we are here at the Wahoo Weekly we decided to do the same and give a quarterly update on the Virginia Cavaliers football program to track the progress of the team.

Through 3 games of the 2012 season the Virginia Cavaliers find themselves 3-0 overall and 1-0 in the ACC, thanks in large part to the play of transfer, and local HS hero, QB Phillip Sims. Sims has come out of the gate on fire completing 75% of his passes and has back to back games in which he has thrown for 4 scores and rushed for another. He looks as if he’s been in this offense for ages as he has mixed it up nicely distributing the ball quite evenly (4 different players have at least 6 catches). The expectations were that this offense had the potential to be very explosive and the early signs are that it will be as the offense is averaging 32.7 points per game.


QB Phillip Sims has enjoyed early success passing for 8TD and rushing for 2TD already

Defensively, UVA expected to be stout against the run but the big concern was whether the inexperienced secondary would be up to the task. So far, so good as opponents are completing under 55% of their passes for less than 175 yards per game against this UVA defense. Some of that credit should also go to the front seven which is putting pressure on the QB and averaging 3 sacks per game.


Senior MLB Steve Greer leads the team in Tackles, TFL and Sacks

It’s still very early but things are looking positive for the Cavaliers, however they can’t get complacent as the next three games include non-conference matchups with powerhouse programs Ohio State and Florida.

Virginia Team Leaders

Passing

Name……………..…Rating………Comp…….Att………Yards……..TD…..INT…….Yds/Game…..Comp%
QB Phillip Sims…..262.3……….30………….40……….625………..8……..2………..208.3………….75%

Rushing

Name…………………Att………Yards…….Yds/Rush………TD…..Yds/Game
RB Perry Jones…..46……….282………..6.1………………..4……..94.0
QB Phillip Sims…..20…………58…………2.9……………….2……..19.3

Receiving

Name………………….……Rec………Yards…….Yds/Rec………TD…..Yds/Game
WR Tim Smith…..……..11…………167……….15.1……………0……..55.6
WR Darius Jennings……6…………129……….21.5…………….2……..43.0
WR Dominique Terrell..6………..180……….30.0………….…3……..60.0
TE Colter Phillips………..6…………115……….19.1…………….2..…..38.3

Defensive Leaders

Tackles………………MLB Steve Greer (23)
TFL…………………….MLB Steve Greer (7)
Sacks…………………MLB Steve Greer / SS Anthony Harris (3)
INT…………………….Four Tied (1)

talk about in depth. good shit man

konemesis wrote:talk about in depth. good shit man

If someone other than just me is reading this crap then it makes me feel a little bit better about writing all of it, lol.

Of course the latest installment came at the expense of writing a league weekly writeup. I'll have to try and find time to do a Week 4 preview before all the games actually get played, lol.

konemesis wrote:talk about in depth. good shit man

Btw, I want to hear about everything that is going on behind the scenes in Morgantown. Where's the West Virginia write up's man? That's an AALOA National Title contender, the league wants to know about what is going on with the Mountaineers. lol

Senior Captains Help Keep Cavaliers Undefeated



The Ohio State Buckeyes came to Charlottesville and gave the home team everything they could handle. On a day when the Buckeye’s defense, led by All-American DT John Simon, made the Cavaliers passing non-existent thanks to constant pressure on Phillip Sims and glue like coverage in the secondary it was the defense and running game that helped lead the team to victory. The cavaliers took the opening kickoff and promptly drove down the field on a drive that culminated with a TD scamper by senior RB Perry Jones. However, that would be the last time anyone saw the end zone in some time. The rest of the first half was filled with great defense, three and outs and a plethora of interceptions in the passing game. Late in the first half, up 10-0, the Cavaliers attempted to get into FG range but the Ohio State defense forced Phillip Sims into a bad pass which was picked off in Virginia territory. With Ohio State inside the 5 and under 20 seconds remaining in the half, it was the defensive captain for Virginia that came up with the play of the game. On first down Ohio State tried to catch UVA off guard with a pass but the senior leader, MLB Steve Greer, stepped in front of the receiver for the interception and secured the 10-0 lead. The Cavaliers, on the heels of senior RB Perry Jones, mounted one last drive midway through the third quarter and Phillip Sims punched it in for a TD on a read option keeper and a 17-0 lead. The Cavaliers would hold on for the 17-3 lead as they moved to 4-0 on the season.

FINAL SCORE
Ohio State Buckeyes 3
Virginia Cavaliers 17

PLAYER OF THE GAME
RB Perry Jones
20 Rushes
128 Yards
TD

Virginia Takes Chomp Out of Gators



QB Phillip Sims had arguably his worst game of the season last week versus Ohio State as RB Perry Jones and the Cavaliers defense picked him up and helped Virginia pull out the victory. This week, QB Phillip Sims rebounded very nicely and in hostile territory. The newly ranked #25 Virginia Cavaliers headed to the Swamp to take the Florida Gators in their final non-conference game before finishing up with 7 ACC contests. In a continuation of last week, the Virginia defense played outstanding holding the Gators to 7 points, 24 yards rushing and sacking the Florida QB’s 7 times on the afternoon.

Virginia jumped out to a 7-0 lead on Sims’ 14 yard TD strike in the first quarter to TE Colter Phillips. On the ensuing possession the Gators found themselves deep in their territory facing a third and long and decided to punt. The strategy worked as Virginia played a base defense and did not return the booming punt which was downed on the Cavaliers 17 yard line. Well, it worked from that stand point, however on the very next play Phillip Sims took a shot deep and found a streaking Dominique Jennings for an 83 yard TD score and a 14-0 lead. The Cavaliers took a 17-7 lead into halftime but that was enough as the defense pitched the shutout in the second half while the offense added two more FG’s. Florida will have to regroup quickly as LSU comes to town next week while the Cavaliers travel to Durham, NC to take on the Duke Blue Devils.

FINAL SCORE
Virginia Cavaliers 23
Florida Gators 7

PLAYER OF THE GAME
QB Phillip Sims
13/18 for 269 Yards
2TD / 0INT
2 Rushes
15 Yards

Virginia Cavaliers Football Recruiting Update

Coach Steel Pitt and his staff have not only helped the Virginia Cavaliers get things going in the right direction on the field, they are also working hard at bringing good talent to ensure this program remains productive going forward. The latest Recruiting Class Rankings were released and the Virginia Cavaliers entered the list as the #10 ranked class in the country, thanks in part to their two latest commitments.

**** CB Hiram Coe (#21 Ranked Cornerback)
6’2” 166 lbs.
Florence, KY



Hiram was an Army HS All-American being recruited by Big Ten and SEC schools such as Nebraska and Missouri but ultimately chose to play for Coach Steel Pitt at UVA. Hiram is a tall and lanky CB that is just as effective in zone as he is in man coverage. He has the raw abilities needed to be a very good CB on the college level.

*** OLB Anthony Henley (#49 Ranked Outside Linebacker)
6’4” 244 lbs.
Staunton, VA



Anthony Henley will add much needed depth to the Cavaliers’ LB unit. Due to the shortage of OLB on the Cavaliers roster for next season, there’s a good chance that Henley will compete for playing time as a freshman. The opportunity to play early was a big reason that Anthony chose UVA over rival Virginia Tech. In addition to that, Anthony has announced that he will graduate in December and enroll early in college so that he can take part in UVA’s spring practices.

Cavaliers Outlast Blue Devils in Shootout



If high flying offense is what you like then Durham, North Carolina is where you wanted to be this weekend as the Duke Blue Devils and Virginia Cavaliers engaged in a good ole fashion shootout on the football field. When it was all said and done, the Cavaliers had prevailed by a score of 56-46 in a game that featured two RB’s rushing for over 170 yards, two QB’s throwing for 4TD, one QB throw for over 450 yards and a combined 1200 yards of total offense. The Blue Devils received the opening kick and wasted little time in getting the fireworks started. Led by QB Sean Renfree, the Duke no huddle Pistol attack marched down the field for a TD and a quick 7-0 lead.


QB Sean Renfree finished the day 29/51 for 452 yards with 4TD and 1INT

Not to be out done, QB Phillip Sims drove Virginia right back down for the tying score. The first half featured both offenses going up and down the field as neither team punted. The only two times that each team did not score came on each QB’s lone interception (Virginia returned the Renfree INT 74 yards for a TD). The back and forth affair continued in the second half however Virginia was able to slow the pace down a bit as they leaned on their running game more.


RB Perry Jones rushed for 200 yards and a score.

Leading 42-40 heading into the fourth quarter it was Virginia that finally put this game away, or so they thought, when they scored a TD, stopped the Blue Devils on downs and then scored again to go up 56-40 with 2 minutes to play. The Blue Devils had other plans as they drove down the field and scored with under a minute to play but the conversion failed leaving the lead at 10 points. The Blue Devils continued to give their faithful hope as they recovered the onside kick but the Cavaliers defense was able to stop Duke from scoring as they upped their record to 6-0 with the victory.

FINAL SCORE
Virginia Cavaliers 56
Duke Blue Devils 46

PLAYER OF THE GAME
RB Perry Jones
17 Rushes
200 Yards
1 TD
2 Receptions
20 Yards

Virginia Cavaliers Quarterly Update
Mid-Season Report

We’re halfway through the regular season and expectations are sky high in Charlottesville, VA and that’s because the Wahoo faithful find their team sitting at 6-0 (2-0 ACC) and looking as dangerous and explosive as the pre-season hype suggested. Offensively, the Cavaliers are averaging 213 yards passing per game on 67% completions percentage and rushing for 160 yards per game while only turning the ball over 6 times all season. That, in turn, has helped Virginia put up 32 points per game.


Virginia’s offense has had plenty of reason to stick their chest out this season

While a high flying offense and much improved defense has helped Virginia outscored their opponents by 14 points per game on average, there is still plenty to be concerned about as they head into the second half of the season. Opponents are rushing for almost 110 yards per game and over four yards per carry against the defense. And while the defense looked sharp against non-conference foes, the two ACC opponents that have plenty of prior game tape against Virginia were able to move the ball well against the Cavaliers. I’m sure teams like Miami, UNC and Virginia Tech all took notice of the prolific outing the Duke QB, Sean Renfree, had against this Cavalier defense and are licking their chops a the chance to face Virginia’s young secondary. If Coach Steel Pitt and his staff do not plug the holes in that secondary they could be in store for many shootouts over the last six games.

Virginia Team Leaders

Passing

Name……………..…Rating………Comp…….Att………Yards……..TD…..INT…….Yds/Game…..Comp%
QB Phillip Sims…..209.3……….66………….98……….1225……….14……5………..204.1………….67%

Rushing

Name…………………Att………Yards…….Yds/Rush………TD…..Yds/Game
RB Perry Jones…..101……….667………..6.6……………….6……..111.1
QB Phillip Sims…….35……….155…………4.4……………….3………25.8

Receiving

Name……………………………Rec………Yards…….Yds/Rec………TD…..Yds/Game
WR Tim Smith…..………....18…………280……….15.5……………2……..46.6
WR Darius Jennings………16…………298……….18.6…………….4……..49.6
TE Colter Phillips…………..12…………204……….17.0…………….4..…..34.0
WR Dominique Terrell…..11………..306……….27.8………….…3……..51.0

Defensive Leaders

Tackles………………MLB Steve Greer (51)
TFL…………………….MLB Steve Greer (9)
Sacks…………………SS Anthony Harris (5)
INT…………………….CB Demetrious Nicholson (3)

UVA Overcomes 31 Point Deficit (Twice) to Remain Undefeated



The homecoming crowd was treated to a thrilling football game as records fell at Scot Stadium on the campus of the University of Virginia. Not all the records were good as QB Phillip Sims, perhaps a little too excited to play in front of the hometown Virginia crowd on homecoming, threw 9 … yes 9 interceptions breaking the UVA single game record and tying the NCAA single game record for picks thrown by a QB.


In case you think you read that wrong, QB Phillip Sims threw 9 INT’s.

The repeated passes thrown to the other team were plenty of fuel for the Terrapins as they built what seemed like an insurmountable 31-0 lead midway through the second quarter. When asked why he stuck with the Sophomore QB, Coach Steel Pitt simply had this to say:

“He got himself into this mess, he was gonna have to clean it up himself.”

Coach Steel Pitt and his staff gave Sims every opportunity to do so as they all but abandoned the run game at that point and decided to just fling the ball around. It started off innocently enough as Sims threw 2 TD passes before the half to cut the lead to 38-14 and after trading scores in the third quarter Maryland took a 45-21 lead into the final quarter. What transpired was simply incredible.


Little did anyone know the excitement that the fourth quarter would bring.

The quarter opened with a 24 yard TD pass from Sims to WR Tim Smith. Now trailing by 18 the Cavaliers decided to go for two. Converted. A little hope but still down by 16. The defense suddenly decides to step up and they force a 3 and out. With just under five minutes to play, Sims found WR Darius Jennings down the sideline for a 71 yard TD score. Sims runs the Read Option to perfection on the 2 point conversion attempt to cut the lead to 8.


Darius Jennings fell 2 yards short of breaking the UVA single game receiving yards record with 239 yards.

Three plays later, the Maryland Terps were once again in Punt formation as the Cavaliers defense held their ground. Phillip Sims, determined to not let this opportunity slip away, guided his team down the field with pin point passing. With Darius Jennings having a big game the Terps focused on him but Sims dropped back, looked off the safety and found slot WR Dominique Terrell on a corner route which he took 57 yards to the house. Down by 2, the Cavaliers lined up in a 2WR, 2TE, 1RB set for the two point conversion. Sims dropped back and found the backup TE crossing wide open, unfortunately the pass was off and he had to come back for the ball. This gave the CB time to see the catch, leave his man and stop the play at the one yard line. Virginia still trailed 45-43 with about 3 minutes remaining in the game. Fortunately, Coach Steel Pitt must have secretly replaced his defense with the Steelers defense in his AALoA Madden Franchise because once again they would force a punt by the Terps. Now, down by 2, Coach Steel Pitt put the ball in the hands of his senior captain RB Perry Jones to lead them into FG range. Perry Jones and the Cavaliers offensive line were up for the challenge as they continuously picked up chunks of yards methodically moving the ball down the field and taking time off the clock. With 3 seconds left K Ian Frye, following a Maryland timeout in an attempt to ice the UVA kicker, lined up for the potential game winning 28 yard kick.

Here’s the snap, the hold is good, the kick is up and … and … and …


It’s Good! It’s Good! UVA Wins! UVA Wins!

The kick sails through the uprights as time expired completing one of the greatest comebacks in NCAA FBS history. While the Cavaliers have to be happy to escape with the win and remain undefeated, they also have to feel extremely lucky and guarded as there are many obvious holes to fill. They’ve won their last two but have given up over 40 points in each game. Coach Steel Pitt and his staff will burn the midnight oil trying to correct these issues but at least for the immediate future the UVA campus will be buzzing on homecoming weekend.

FINAL SCORE
Maryland Terps 45
Virginia Cavaliers 46

PLAYER OF THE GAME
WR Darius Jennings
6 Receptions
239 Yards
2 TD

Virginia Cavaliers Football Recruiting Update

Following UVA’s miraculous comeback win over Maryland on homecoming weekend, two more recruits signed on the dotted line.

*** TE Jason Fowler (#43 Tight End)
6’8” 255 lbs.
Laurel, MD



With Colter Phillips, the UVA starting TE, graduating this summer it was important to bring in a receiving TE to challenge for play time next season. Enter Jason Fowler. Jason was a First Team All-District TE as a Junior and is on pace to repeat that feat in his senior season. Jason is a willing blocker but excels in the passing game. His 6’8” frame gives him a height advantage over most LB and he has shown sure hands throughout his HS career.

*** OLB Shane Goddard (#108 Ranked Outside Linebacker)
6’2” 225 lbs.
Croydon, PA



Shane Goodard is welcome addition to the UVA recruiting class as he adds depth and skill to the LB unit. Goodard is a hardnosed Pennsylvania LB that has room to add muscle onto that 225lbs frame. Just watch a couple minutes of film and you will see his great first step, natural instincts and sure tackling. He has room to improve in pass coverage but his HS coach assures the UVA staff that if there were anyone that would be willing to go the extra mile to improve its Shane.

Wow, what a mullet...

the_EDJ wrote:Wow, what a mullet...

That's part of what attracted our staff to the kid. We saw that party in the back and this kid will fit right in with our locker room. lol

Cavaliers Rout Demon Deacons 41-10 to Remain Undefeated



A week after watching QB Phillip Sims throw 9 interceptions and having to come from 31 points down twice to defeat Maryland, the Virginia Cavaliers looked to be in another dog fight against Wake Forest. Having watched Duke and Maryland give the UVA defense fits with the no huddle offense, the Demon Deacons ran the no huddle themselves in an effort to move the ball and take advantage of that young Cavalier secondary. An early interception by Phillip Sims gave Wake Forest the ball in good field position and they took advantage by scoring a TD and eventually taking a 10-3 lead midway through the second quarter. Coach Steel Pitt, who has been calling the plays on offense this season, decided to ease the pressure on his young QB and had him hand the ball off a little more and lean on the running game. Phillip Sims ran the read option and took it in 5 yard for a score with 45 seconds left in the first half to tie the score at the break. Leading 17-10, it was the UVA defense that sealed the victory as they put constant pressure on the Wake Forest QB, sacking him twice and picking off three fourth quarter passes deep in Wake territory as UVA exploded for 24 point in the final quarter. The good field position and second half shutout helped UVA cruise to the 41-10 victory. That performance may have saved themselves from a lot of gassers as they head into their bye week.

FINAL SCORE
Wake Forest Demon Deacons 10
Virginia Cavaliers 41

PLAYER OF THE GAME
MLB Steve Greer
6 Tackles
2 TFL
1 Pass Deflection
1 INT

I guess we found why Coach Steel Pitt packed up and moved down to Virginia. Just don't get photographed at a social gathering Pitt.

Playboy lists Virginia as #1 Party School

Virginia Cavaliers Football Recruiting Update

Its was an off week for the Cavaliers on the field but not off as the coaching staff hit the recruiting trail and picked up two more commitments.

**** DE Brock White (#7 Defensive End)
6’5” 245 lbs.
Washington, NC



Brock White was a welcomed addition to the UVA Recruiting Class as he chose the Cavaliers over the likes of hometown UNC. At 6'5" 254lbs, Brock is a physical presence that has the speed and tenacity to cause lots of problems for opposing QB's.

*** OLB Terry Edwards (#33 Ranked Outside Linebacker)
6’4” 240 lbs.
Apopka, FL



Terry is a versatile LB who can play both inside and outside LB for UVA. he has a great first step and has shown to be great in coverage on the high school level.

Virginia Survives A Scare From NC State



A week off did not seem to help resolve the Cavaliers’ issues on defense as they allowed NC State QB Mike Glennon to throw for 235 yards on 80% completion %, RB Tony Creecy to rush for 138 yards and 2TD and two NC State WR’s to catch at least 5 passes and 75 yards all while giving up 35 points. The good thing for the Cavaliers is that the bye week did seem to rejuvenate starting QB Phillip Sims and the offense as they showed no signs of rust. Virginia held a slim 14-13 lead at the half and started the third quarter with a promising drive that saw them standing at the NC State 10 yard line. Sims made his only critical mistake of the game as he telegraphed a screen pass to WR Tim Smith which was picked off and returned for a TD. Virginia quickly answered however as Kevin Parks returned the ensuing kickoff back 99 yards for the tying TD. Up 35-28 late in the fourth, the UVA defense could not hold the lead as Tony Creecy punched it in from 3 yards out to tie the game at 35. However, it was apparent that this game would be decided by who had the ball last and thankfully for the UVA faithful it was the Cavaliers. With Phillip Sims and Perry Jones (18 rushes for 95 yards) leading the way, the Cavaliers drove the ball down to the 2 yard line and K Ian Frye kicked the game winning 19 yard FG with one second remaining on the clock.

FINAL SCORE
Virginia Cavaliers 38
NC State Wolfpack 35

PLAYER OF THE GAME
QB Philip Sims
12/18 for 306 Yards Passing
2 TD
1 INT
9 Rushes
47 Yards Rushing
2 TD

Virginia Cavaliers Football Recruiting Update

In addition to picking up their ninth win of the season, the Cavaliers also received good news on the recruiting front with the announcement that four star Tackle Tony Clayton had committed to UVA.

**** OT Tony Clayton (#9 Offensive Tackle)
6’6” 289 lbs.
Kathleen, FL



Tony Clayton is big but quite agile for his size. He has the strength and agression to move people in the run game and the quick feet to slide and protect in the passing game. Its those agile feet that have the coaching staff thinking he may be the next in a long line of good UVA Left Tackles.

Virginia Cavaliers Quarterly Update
Third Quarter Report

Hello Virginia Cavaliers fans! We’re almost at the finish line of this college season and while we expected this Virginia team to be better under Coach Steel Pitt, I don’t think anyone could have envisioned this start. Through 9 games the Cavaliers find themselves undefeated at 9-0 (5-0 in ACC) and #3 in the BCS rankings. Not only are they in contention for an ACC Coastal Division crown, they have put themselves in the discussion for the National Title. After their thrilling 38-35 victory over NC State, The Wahoo Weekly was able to catch up with Coach Steel Pitt for a few questions.


Virginia Head Coach Steel Pitt

Wahoo Weekly (WW): Coach, congrats on the win. How does it feel to be undefeated after nine games?

Coach Steel Pitt (CSP): Well, we’re obviously happy to be undefeated but while our record is perfect through nine games, we certainly are not as a tam and there are lots of areas that need to be improved upon if we intend on meeting our goal of a conference championship.

WW: Coming into this game Coach, your team was ranked #3 in the BCS. You mentioned winning the Conference Championship as a goal, but has the National Championship come up as the goal now that it is a possibility?

CSP: Well, not to sound cliché but the goal is win every game and to win a National Title every season, but unlike Alabama last year we actually want to be Conference Champs first as well as National Champs.

WW: Phillip Sims had another solid game this week. Do you think he’s put himself back into the discussion for User QB of the Year?

CSP: If he did it will be a miracle. I don’t see how anyone could win a post season award with a 9 INT game on his resume. I do believe the Sports Nation crew gave him their show of support as #1 on last week’s show. Thanks for the questions but unfortunately that’s all I have time for today.

Virginia Team Leaders

Passing

Name……………..…Rating………Comp…….Att………Yards……..TD…..INT…….Yds/Game…..Comp%
QB Phillip Sims…..192.3……….114………..183……….2310……….23…..16………..256.6………….62%

Rushing

Name…………………Att………Yards…….Yds/Rush………TD…..Yds/Game
RB Perry Jones…..153……….889………..5.8……………….8………98.7
QB Phillip Sims…….54……….247…………4.5……………….6………27.4

Receiving

Name……………………………Rec………Yards…….Yds/Rec………TD…..Yds/Game
WR Tim Smith…..………....30…………518……….17.2……………6……..57.5
WR Darius Jennings………28…………616……….21.9…………….6……..68.4
WR Dominique Terrell…..19………..571……….30.0………….…5……..63.4
TE Colter Phillips…………..17…………308……….18.1…………….4..…..34.2

Defensive Leaders

Tackles………………MLB Steve Greer (69)
TFL…………………….MLB Steve Greer (12)
Sacks…………………MLB Steve Greer / OLB DaQuan Romero / SS Anthony Harris (5)
INT…………………….MLB Steve Greer / CB Demetrious Nicholson (3)

Cavaliers Stay Hot In The Snow And Remain Unbeaten



It was a beautiful day for football in Charlottesville as the snow fell from the sky and covered the field in white. The Hurricanes came to town but ultimately this day belonged to the home team. The first half was a back and forth affair as Miami received the opening kick and marched right down the field for a TD run by Mike James. Virginia would answer right back with scoring drives of their own capped off by TD runs from RB Perry Jones and QB Phillip Sims to give the Cavaliers a 14-7 lead after one quarter. Virginia would extend the lead to 10 on an Ian Frye FG but Miami kept this game close in the first half with big runs by Mike James. In fact, James had back to back carries that went for 75 yards TD’s a she finished the day with 16 carries for 246 yards and all three Miami TD’s. That would be all of the scoring for Miami however and with Virginia holding onto a 31-21 lead at the start of the fourth quarter, Phillip Sims all but put the game away with a 91 yard scoring strike to TE Colter Phillips. With the win Virginia moves to 10-0 (6-0 in the ACC) and will host UNC next week on Senior Day.

FINAL SCORE
Miami Hurricanes 21
Virginia Cavaliers 38

PLAYER OF THE GAME
QB Philip Sims
12/20 for 330 Yards Passing
3 TD
0 INT
9 Rushes
41 Yards Rushing
1 TD

Virginia Sends Seniors Off In Style



The temperature was chilling and the snow was pouring out of the sky, but none of that could keep the Wahoo faithful from packing the stands to watch their fellow classmates and Senior football players perform for the last time at Scott Stadium. The #2 Virginia Cavaliers were coming off a big win against Miami and have a gigantic game against rival Virginia Tech next week, but if you thought this was a potential trap game, those thoughts were erased quickly. UVA scored on the third play of the game as QB Phillip Sims caught UNC in an all-out blitz and dropped the ball off to WR Darious Jennings on a crossing route that went 57 yards for the opening score less than a minute into the game. After forcing a punt, Sims struck again this time with his legs as he ran the read option to perfection and scampered 48 yards for the TD. Sims would add a 17 yard TD pass to TE Colter Phillips before the first quarter ended to give UVA a commanding 21-0 lead after just one quarter of play.


Sims accounted for 427 yards and 6TD in only 3 quarters of work while solidifying himself as a Heisman candidate

North Carolina put up a fight in the second quarter scoring 17 points but even that wasn’t good enough to stop the Cavaliers from extending the lead to 25 by halftime. UNC received the opening kick to begin the second half and if they had any delusions of getting back into the game, they were dashed on their first offensive play when QB Renner’s pass was picked off and returned for a TD and a 49-17 UVA lead. Phillips Sims once again showed why he is being mentioned as a Heisman candidate as the sophomore QB registered a 628.3 QB Rating finishing 8-8 for 346 yards with 4TD and 0INT. He also added 81 yards on the ground and 2 TD runs. That performance gave Sims 2986 yards passing and 30TD passes on the season, both UVA school records. Next week the Cavaliers head to Blacksburg, VA to face their arch rival the Virginia Tech Hokies in a game that will not only determine bragging rights but also the ACC Coastal Division Champ.

FINAL SCORE
North Carolina Tar Heels 24
Virginia Cavaliers 63

PLAYER OF THE GAME
QB Philip Sims
8/8 for 346 Yards Passing
4 TD
0 INT
6 Rushes
81 Yards Rushing
2 TD

Virginia Claims Commonwealth Cup With Victory Over VA Tech



The stage was set for an epic game at Lane Stadium in Blacksburg, VA as rivals Virginia and Virginia Tech squared off in their annual meeting. The 94th meeting between these two rivals would be the first meeting with both teams entering with a Top 5 ranking. Not only was the ACC Coastal Division crown on the line and a spot in the ACC Championship Game, but the winner had a legitimate at playing for a National Title if they can win next week vs Florida State. They say big time players come up big in big games and this was no different today for UVA sophomore QB Phillip Sims. The Heisman candidate didn’t have his best game of the season, but he performed great and provided his team with big plays when they needed them. The UVA defense came out playing well slowing down the run the game and putting pressure on VA Tech QB Logan Thomas. After an opening 3 and out, UVA drove down the field and opened the scoring on a 34 yard FG by Ian Fyre. Late in the first quarter with the score still 3-0 and facing a third and 12 on their own 19 yard line, Sims made his first big play as he threw a picture perfect pass to WR Tim Smith who was running just a step ahead of the CB in man coverage. Smith took it to the house for a 10-0 UVA lead after one quarter of play.


Smith finished with 5 catches for 197 yards and 2 TD

After VA Tech cut the lead to 10-7 on a beautiful 31 yard scoring run by Michael Holmes, it was time for Sims to step up again. Facing a third and 5 and possibly having to kick the ball right back to VA Tech, Coach Steel Pitt put the ball in the hands of his playmaker and called for a QB Read Option. Sims ran it to perfection as he read the DE, kept the ball and raced down the sideline for a 76 yard TD run and a 10 point halftime lead.

Once again, late in the game following a VA Tech scoring run by Logan Thomas which cut the lead to 10 (24-14), it was Sims that ultimately put this game away as he threw another strike to Tim Smith for a 79 yard score for a 17 point lead with only 3 minutes remaining. With the win Virginia finishes the regular season a perfect 12-0 (8-0 ACC) and will play Florida State in two weeks in the ACC Championship Game. The winner of that game could be playing for a spot in the National Title Game.

FINAL SCORE
Virginia Cavaliers 31
Virginia Tech Hokies 14

PLAYER OF THE GAME
QB Philip Sims
8/16 for 231 Yards Passing
2 TD
1 INT
8 Rushes
106 Yards Rushing
1 TD