State of the Program: UVa Football

So, yeah. I guess it was about time I write something about this utter collapse of the football season -- and one would think Mike London's career.

Listen, the first half of our schedule was tougher than that of most teams. Still, we had two guaranteed wins against Richmond and Kent State. We had another should-win in a night-game against Pittsburgh. And then we got lucky and beat Louisville.

And we made it through at 4-2. Great. But what did that tell us? Not much, unfortunately.

Just like the beginning of last season, the defense was swarming to the ball carrier and forcing turnovers. It was truly a difference-making unit.

But then what happened? We started facing more diverse offenses in the ACC schedule. Outside of BYU (who still had Taysom Hill at the time), every team we played used a pro-style, three receiver offense. That plays to our strengths -- we get Canady in the slot, Mike Moore over with Dean at DT, and then two pretty damn good bookends in Harold and Valles coming after the QB.

And then the ACC schedule hit. We faced the hurry up offense of Duke, the lightning-bolt scoring abilities of UNC, and then the dreaded triple option -- which although it runs basically five plays, our defense consistently looks dazed and confused.

As for the offense, it was never really that good. Sure, we had some receivers come up with jump balls (Gooch, in particular) and then a decent emergence from Severin, but are any of these guys difference makers? There's no outstanding ball-skills, no blazing speed, and now not even really size or leadership with Gooch out.

While doing their best, the o-line just isn't talented enough to deal with constant injuries and open up holes for the backs.

Oh yeah, and regardless of which QB plays, we're basically guaranteed to watch two bad interceptions, at the very least.

So here's my take: it all comes back to the coaching.

Why don't we have talent at o-line or receiver? Poor recruiting.

Why do we see the same type of interceptions every season (anyone else notice how Lambert's pick by the D-lineman against UNC was a mirror image of Rocco's vs. Penn State)? Poor fundamentals, which comes back to poor coaching.

Why is the defense all of a sudden surrendering 30ish points per game? They're not ready or deep enough for these diverse offenses. Poor coaching and poor player development.

I just can't stand the thought of thinking back to the Groh days in the early 2000s anymore. When I say that was the last time we were respectable, that's embarrassing. I'm not proud of that. I mean, the last time we had a consistent winning-tradition, Marques Hagans was still the quarterback.

I don't think there are too many people who still have hope that Mike London can salvage this season.

I'd get it if maybe we were playing close to teams that we're better than us, and we were just short. We had something to build on from week to week.

But that's not how it's been. As we've all grown well too accustomed to, it's quite the opposite. We either outplay the opponent yet still find a way to lose, or we come out with no heart, no focus, and no passion (cough, cough, Georgia Tech).

I don't know how to fix these problems. Is it something the bye-week will solve? I doubt it, especially considering we're 0-3 after our last bye.

Maybe the defense can get their act back together, but while the point totals have been higher, it's not like their play has been terrible. Let's face it -- a couple of UNC's touchdowns were just perfectly executed plays or perfectly timed throws. Hell, the deep UNC touchdown in-front of the student section was one of the pretties throws I've ever seen.

But it comes back to the offense, and in particular, their half-time adjustments (or lack thereof). Unless you're scoring points like Oregon, it's pretty much impossible to win without second-half touchdowns, especially when the other team has made and is executing their adjustments. You can even go back to Louisville and Pitt and see terrible second-half offensive execution.

I don't want to sit here and beat a dead horse -- we know what our problems are. So does the coaching staff. Problem is: they can't fix them.

Coaches are there to improve the players and their execution. Simply put, that hasn't happened.

What the future holds: I don't know. But here's what I do know: if we want a successful, winning program, changes must be made, and they start at the top.

I'm not going to get into possible candidates because I couldn't tell you (although http://wahooze.blogspot.com/ might be able to). But we need big changes -- I'm talking culture changes, not just coaching.

We need a team that gets fans excited so players aren't running out of the tunnel against a ranked team to see the stadium half empty. We need excitement back in Charlottesville.

Just like basketball a few years back, we have the resources to make that happen. So it all comes down to the athletics office making the right decision. Presumably -- to bring in the right new staff.

If they can't make that happen, get ready for another five-years of losing. It's the Virginia way.

*NOTE: To date, just for the record, I've been a perfect 9-0 thus far on my preseason win-loss predictions. But I also have us beating Miami and Va. Tech to get bowl eligible. It wouldn't surprise me if we still beat Tech, despite the curse or why ever the hell we can't beat that damn school, but I did not anticipate Miami being as good as they are. Duke Johnson's speed kills, and I just don't see us containing him (at least to the point where our offense can keep pace).

I'll put us at 5-7 to finish the season, with losses to FSU and Miami, and then a win against Tech.

As always, Go Hoos. And basketball is only days away.

Interim reports: Football

It seems just like yesterday I was making the trek from the apartment to the UCLA game. Man, does time fly during football season.

It feels good to say that for once, because for the first time since 2011, we look like a respectable program. A good program? That will be determined down the stretch. For now, we'll stick with respectable.

Listen, I picked us to go 4-2 on my preseason predictions. So far, I look pretty good, if I may say so myself.

But with a few changes of fortunes, we could be 6-0. Conversely, we're one muffed punt and a goal line false start penalty by Pitt from being 2-4.

My point: these judgments are tricky. It is easy to get too high right now. Tied for the lead in the Coastal! Go Hoos!

Not so fast.

What we've done so far is admirable, but we have to stay hungry. We've played our hearts out, but we're still no lock to go bowling. Second half collapses happen.

Will we fall into faltering the pit of less than six wins? If I were a betting man, I'd say probably not. But we're not out of the woods yet. I love my team, but let's not give them distractions; let them work and continue to play with a chip on their shoulder. That's the formula for continued success.

So without further ado, here are my grades through six games:

Offense

Through nearly the first two quarters of the season, this unit didn't look much different than it did last season. But then Johns came in and gave us two huge completions -- including the touchdown to Levrone. It's never this simple, but I swear that pass kick started our season.

Three first-half defensive touchdowns by the Bruins were too much to overcome, but we were heading in the right direction. And while it took nearly 30 minutes to get going against Richmond, the offense took off, and hasn't really ever looked back.

Get this stat: through the first six games, we've scored at least 20 points in every contest. We're no Baylor or Oregon, but we're moving the ball, grinding down the defense, and getting points to show for it.

We're light years ahead from last year. I think it's safe to say Watford was really holding this team back. With essentially the same talent from a year ago -- minus two NFL offensive linemen -- we look like a completely different team.

I see two primary reasons for this. 

1) Big wide receivers. Look, speed is good; no, speed is great. But without a quarterback and offensive coordinator who actually prefer to stretch the field, that does us no good. With these big guys (Gooch, Levrone, Severin, Dowling), we're just more physical than opposing defenses -- an identity Mike London has always wanted.

Go up and get it

2) More creative play calling. Maybe it really does take a year for players to get used to an offensive system, because this offense -- from a play calling perspective -- looks nothing like last season's. I love the sweep threat with Smoke and Jennings -- especially since Lambert or Johns could keep it or give the rock to Parks. We're also throwing the balls further downfield. It doesn't always work, but the threat keeps defenses honest and opens up more room for shallow crossing routes.

After the first few games, I really wanted to see Johns take the quarterback job. He just looked like a gunslinger who could get the job done. Now though, I think we're all ready to give the reins back to Lambert. I see Johns as a great backup QB -- who could be needed considering Lambert never moves in the pocket and gets punished -- but that gunslinger mentality isn't always best for the team. I think Lambert -- long term -- gives us the best chance to win.

Grade: B-

Defensive 

Wow. Just thinking about this group gets me giddy.

With Harold and Valles as bookends and Dean and Moore in the middle, the defensive front is a force in the run and passing game.

Then take Henry Coley -- who might be the best pure linebacker in the ACC -- with his team leading 6 sacks and pair him with Daquan Romero -- who might be the most underrated player on this unit -- and you've got yourself a fearsome core of leaders.

That can't feel good.

The secondary -- specifically the corners -- haven't necessarily produced like I had hoped, but much of that is due to Nicholson's injury. Canady is unrivaled in the slot and Phelps is finally playing his natural position, but neither Hoskey nor Tim Harris have been able to hold down that other outside spot.

Still, the safeties have really bailed these guys out. Anthony Harris -- while not as flashy as last season -- is really playing good football. He makes plays when the ball is thrown his way, and he's showing more of a presence at the line of scrimmage (see his sack against Pitt). Meanwhile, Blanding is playing like a seasoned veteran just six games into his career. While he's great in coverage, I don't think any of us expected him to be such a good tackler (he leads the team with 61 -- 10 more than the next Wahoo).

The biggest key to this unit's success has been turnovers. Before Saturday, we were second in the country with 19. And it's not just Harris like last season, either. Eight players have snagged interceptions -- Canady is the only player with more than one. Oh yeah, and we have 10 fumble recoveries. And even better, we have three defensive touchdowns from these turnovers.

Nothing get's me hype like a defensive TD. Like art, it's just beautiful.

This success comes from the pass rush. I never understood the impact pressure on a quarterback could have until the Giants won the Super Bowl in 2007 with a largely mediocre team and a pass rush from hell.

And it's not just about the sacks -- it's about hitting the quarterback on every play. That's what we did against Louisville. In a game of evenly matched teams, we won because we eliminated their offense for three quarters by punishing both of their quarterbacks, driving them into the turf every time they dropped back.

As we get into the heart of the ACC schedule, continued success from these guys will become more and more important.

Grade: A-

Special Teams

It's been a mixed bag. The shining star that could light up the darkest night sky has been Ian Frye. He's 12-13 on field goals -- including a 4-4 effort against BYU and about as clutch of a kick as you can make against Louisville -- and leads the team with 58 points.

His partner in crime -- kickoff specialist Dylan Sims -- has 17 touchbacks, but also four kicks out of bounds. I get kicking it into the corner narrows the playing field on the return, but giving an opponent the ball on the 35-yard line is unacceptable.

Smoke and Jennings have been admirable so far (I wanted Jennings to take that one to the house so bad against Richmond!). Still, they've been nothing special the past few games. Still want more from them.

On punt returns, I still say a prayer every time Khalek trots back there. But so far, so good.

Kickoff and punt coverage has been pretty solid, overall. However, giving up big returns can never happen. Just when it seemed we had some momentum against BYU, that kick return for a touchdown killed us. And against Pitt, the big return with just a few minutes remaining could have been devastating.

We're better than last year, but still not where we need to be (except for Frye -- keep doing your thing!).

Grade: B-

Biggest Surprises

• Matt Johns -- I think this one goes without saying. In my preseason previews, I had him projected as the third-string QB. I was impressed with him in spring ball, but with Lambert the starter, I thought London would go with the more experienced Watford as the backup. Welp, I was wrong. He's played big-time minutes and started two games for us. Did not expect that.

Love these uni's. And Johns's gunslinging energy.

• Canaan Severin -- This was a guy that had six career receptions for 46 yards. Through six games, leads the team with 21 catches for 255 yards, with a two-touchdown performance against Louisville. His reported weight loss this offseason has paid dividends.

He bounces off of would-be tacklers

• Miles Gooch -- Like Severin, Gooch simply had not produced through three seasons. With the exception of a three yard touchdown against Miami in 2012, his career could be viewed largely as a disappointment. But with 17 catches so far for 220 yards, he's had himself quite the season. While other guys provide size, Gooch is simply huge. No longer is he a dead giveaway for a run play.

Where has he been the last three seasons?

• Quin Blanding -- We all expected him to be good. But this good this soon? Not me, at least. He's on track for a three-year stint at UVa, if you ask me.

Read that one all the way.

• Mike Moore -- 2.5 sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss, and a ferocious block on the Pitt QB after Valles's pick-6. Whether inside or outside, he's always around the ball.

• Henry Coley -- He was always a solid tackler, but now he's a playmaker. A difference maker. A guy defenses plan for accordingly. Perhaps the best linebacker in the ACC, according to several opposing coaches.

Whether it's a QB, RB, or WR, Coley's hits are always punishing.

Biggest Disappointments

• Tight ends/Kyle Dockins -- With McGee's departure, no one expected this group to be anything special. However, this unit has been utterly non-productive. I thought Dockins could fill the McGee role, but with only three catches, his only highlight will run in UCLA's tapes as they returned his fumble for a score. Meanwhile Burns and Swanson have combined for perhaps more dropped passes and false starts than their combined four receptions.
• Andrew Brown and Jamil Kamara -- If I had it my way, both would be redshirting this season. I projected Brown to start in my summer-preview, but injuries have really hampered his development. In the few garbage time snaps he's seen, he just doesn't look disciplined in his gaps. And Kamara -- a four-star get -- has all the talent in the world, but just doesn't really try in practice, so I'm told. That's why Dowling -- a less talented but blue-collar worker -- has taken his snaps. 

Yeah, I couldn't find any in-game pictures of Brown... Not a good sign.

• Smoke -- He hasn't been bad; it's just there is so much room for improvement. He has 21 catches, but for only 99 yards. And he's third on the team in rushing. The frustrating part is he is he's probably too athletic for his own good. He just has terrible vision in space and has trouble reading his blocks. If we could combine his speed with Parks's vision, you'd have yourself one heck of a back.

Reasons for Concern 

• Third Corner -- It might be a blessing in disguise that Nicholson will redshirt and return next season, but man, could we use his help. Rarely do you see a pass completed against Canady or Phelps. It's almost always against Hoskey or Tim Harris. Poor Hoskey tries, but he just isn't physical enough to take on this type of competition. As for Harris, he plays about 15 yards off the line of scrimmage, and always misses the tackle after a button-hook completion. Run that route on him, and it's a guaranteed first down. This is our weakness. 

He could complete our defense

• Fourth Quarter -- We seem to play sound football through the first half, but struggle at the end. Even though we won, both Louisville and Pitt got too close for comfort. Plus, out comeback bid stalled late against UCLA. And the defense tired against BYU. I don't know if we're just wearing down (we rarely sub on defense) or offenses are keying in, but we've struggled to close games, despite what the results say.
• Quarterback -- While it's better than last season, we still don't have a firm grip on the position. Lambert has had his ups (Louisville, BYU) and downs (UCLA). Johns adds a nice little spark, but I doubt he's the long-term answer. Lambert is still the guy moving forward, but he's still inexperienced (I don't want to say young, since he's been in the program for almost four years). I still don't consider this a strength of the team.
• Run Game -- The run game hasn't been awful, but it certainly hasn't reached my preseason expectations. The offensive line just hasn't been opening many big gains. Plus, for the first three or four games of the season, we never ran from under center -- always from the shotgun. That's not exactly conducive to big gains in a power system. Maybe Parks will get on a little role here after the Pitt game. I was hoping Smoke could be the lightning to his thunder, but it's clear Parks is the best back and deserves the most carries. 

Reasons for Excitement 

• Defensive Intensity -- Talk about an Orange Crush defense. This unit is a terror, which makes the games that much more fun. Nothing excites a fan base like a swarming, ravenous front seven.  

Keep on eating, boys.

• Solid Kicker -- Knock on wood, but the last kicker we had that was this automatic was Connor Hughes. He graduated in 2005. I give a ton of credit to Frye for the Louisville win, and he'll likely decide at least one more game before the season ends.

#Clutch

• Offense that has reached the threshold of respectability -- No one will confuse us with any air-raid attack, but so far, they've done what they needed to do. More aggressive play calling plus a competent QB has added a more consistent ability to move the chains.
• First place in Coastal! -- With Duke's defeat of George Tech on Saturday, we now hold sole possession of first place in the coastal. Pretty crazy, huh? If the season ended today, we would play FSU in the ACC championship. Now, let's not get carried away. We're undefeated in conference play, but only 2-0. Duke next weekend will be huge, as with a win, we could take a two game lead on most of the coastal and establish a tie-breaker over Duke, which might come in handy. Honestly, the coastal is wide open. I think it's a race between us, Virginia Tech, Georgia Tech, and Duke. So yeah, taking the win over Duke would be a step in the right direction.

Go Hoos!

News and Notes: BYU Game and Non-Revenue Sport Shoutout

If you're reading this, you probably watched the game. We held our own in the first half, but I think it's safe to say the better team won.

Now, that's not to say we can't play with these guys, because we can. After all, we were up at the half despite numerous blown assignments on defense and questionable offensive play-calling. We have the talent to compete with any ACC school that's not FSU.

But as us UVa fans know, being a good team is more than just a talent evaluation. Mental miscues hurt us.

Two personal fouls in one BYU drive. BYU's kick return TD (two guys were out of position in their lanes). The blown coverage in the first half. WE CANNOT MAKE THOSE MISTAKES. EVER!!!

That being said, we showed progress. The defense contained Taysom Hill for much of the game Honestly, against a QB of his caliber, that's all you can really ask for.

Our offense played better than I expected, but we're not where we need to be. At least not yet.

Lambert played well early, but before his injury, the unit had stalled. Johns came in and moved the ball efficiently, for the most part. While I'd be shocked if Lambert doesn't start next week, we still can't ignore the fact that he has yet to "seize the job".

Also, the run game is still very much an issue. We need more production here or our defense will wear, like it did today. I love the passion from guys like Harold, Coley, and Valles, but they're human; they tire.

But there's no need in me recapping the game; a box score can do that. So here are some of the good and the bad from today's game.

Good

• Ian Frye -- Words cannot describe his value to the team. He comes through time and time again. 4/4 today.

• Miles Gooch -- Where has this production been the last three years? He just uses his size to make those tough catches. Finished with 6 catches for 65 yards

• Defensive Front Seven -- these guys played far from a perfect game, but they hustled. They shut down BYU in the first half, and it wasn't until late in the 3rd that they started to cave. With some help from the offense, the score could have been lower.

Bad

• Special Teams -- With the exception of Ian Frye and a good opening return from Darius Jennings, this unit struggled. Khalek Shepherd nearly gave the Cougars the ball in our five-yard line. And the TD return is simply unacceptable. Too much bad offsets the good.

• Offensive Line -- Early on, they looked good. But then they couldn't run block (shocker!). And then they couldn't keep Lambert upright. No surprise, but not a great performance.

• Defensive Secondary -- They had a couple blown assignments. At least one resulted in a touchdown. Can't give teams free chunks of 40+ yards.

• Running Backs -- They just haven't produced like I thought coming into the season. Parks has been solid, but there's just no room between the tackles. Smoke is really the biggest disappointment. He'll make a nice catch here and there, but for a 5-star talent, you want more. (NOTE: Shepherd's TD run was nice; he ran hard today)

• Play Calling -- With 15 seconds left in the half, 3rd and goal from the five, and we run a draw? Does Fairchild ever learn? Why not take a shot to the endzone? I hated that call; need to show some guts (or reasonableness?).
  

Final (Football) Thoughts

We're better than last year. With an easier schedule, I'd say we're going bowling.

But the schedule isn't easy. I've spent too many years buying into preseason hype with this program. I don't care if we're better if we're not winning games. To me, there isn't much of a difference between 2-10 and 5-7. 

With the resources and talent we have, anything less than six wins is unacceptable.

Am I overreacting? Maybe. But I'm tired of hearing people say, "Oh, well that loss wasn't too bad. We played a ranked team pretty close." That's the attitude of a failing program. We deserve more than that. We played UCLA and BYU close, but we could have won both games, and we didn't win either. That stings.

This team could still reach six wins. Through four games, I had them at 2-2 (preseason predictions here). But reaching six wins won't be easy.

Until we actually start winning games, I won't be satisfied.

SOCCER!!!!

My roommates got on me today because my twitter profile says this blog is you're home for "all things UVa sports". Well, I've kind of only focused on football of late. So here are a couple of shout outs to our other programs.

Women's Soccer

We're 8-0, No. 3 in the country (although VT is ranked second...). Obviously a pretty good team. I've only been to a half of a game, so not too many thoughts here. But definitely read the Daily Progress and the Cavalier Daily women's soccer page for some good recaps.

Men's Soccer

We dropped a tough game to Tulsa, but other than that, we're pretty good. We're still lacking some attacking power, but players will come back from injuries. Big game tomorrow against defending national champs Notre Dame. Check it out on ESPNU. And as always, check out the Daily Progress and the Cavalier Daily men's soccer page for more coverage.

Richmond Game Thoughts

Well, 45-13. We did what we were supposed to do against an FCS team -- dominate every phase of the game by letting our superior athletes take control.

Yes, it was a little bit of a slow start, but those things happen. This was Richmond's super bowl, and they played that way to start the game. Their offense -- especially QB Michael Strauss -- was very impressive to start, as they drove down with relative ease to take a 3-0 lead.

And while that made me and most of Wahoo Nation a little nervous, our team responded -- like we were supposed to do. Our players are just that much better.

Anyhoo, here are a couple thoughts on the game...

QB Question Still Unsolved

Coming in, I was really hoping one of either Lambert or Johns would suck while the other shined. I didn't care which. I just wanted a clear cut starter for Louisville.

And, well, that didn't really happen.

For the record, I prefer Johns over Lambert. To me, it seems clear that Lambert has the higher ceiling of the two. He definitely has a stronger arm along with a more sturdy frame.

But Johns just handles adversity in the pocket better. Lambert rarely steps into his throws. His arm is strong enough that it's just not always necessary. But if Lambert wants to actually throw the ball down field -- and not become captain check-down like Watford last year -- he'll need to step up and stand taller in the pocket.

Johns is no physical freak, but he just seems more comfortable. That translates to him being able to take shots down field and keep plays alive.

For example, Johns' patience allowed us to score that first touchdown. I don't think Lambert makes that throw -- he would just panic too much.

But at the same time, I'm not sure Johns makes the second touchdown throw to Severin. That was just a hell of a throw by Lambert while on the move.

Lambert was 13-15 for 102 yards, while Johns was 4-7 for 65 yards and an interception. Both had a touchdown.

Ultimately, I just feel Johns provides a spark that Lambert doesn't. I think he's our best chance to win now.

Run Game Sucks

I hope y'all have noticed this -- we haven't taken a snap from center all year. We're always in the shotgun.

I'm not sure I understand the reasoning for this move. Is it to hide deficiencies in our offensive line? Are our quarterbacks just that much more comfortable in the shotgun?

Whatever the reason, it comes with a consequence -- our run game blows. Draw plays are meant to catch the defense off guard. They're not supposed to be used every play. It's just pathetic.

We've got one of the best RB groups in the ACC, and we won't hit more than 150 yards per game at this rate.

Pass Rush is Really Good

Not much more needs to be said -- between Harold, Valles, Dean, and Moore, we have a legitimate front 4. Then add is great linebackers in Coley and Romero, and you've got yourself one of the best front sevens in the ACC.

That is all.

Playmakers at Wide Receiver

London has always brought in good athletes. But last season, there was no production.

I just thought our WR core sucked, but now I'm thinking that it was Watford that was holding them back. 

We're rotating in like 8 guys, but we're getting production. New(ish) guys like Levrone and Severin have really stepped up. And old guys like Jennings (don't forget about his kick retruns) have produced.

Plus, I really like Doni Dowling as a possession receiver. He'll only improve.

These guys are really underrated, and regardless of the QB, we'll get some production.

NOTE: I'm really surprised that Keeon Johnson hasn't seen more time. He flashed promise last season, and he seemed to be the stud during training camp. I have no answers there -- I'm just surprised he's not playing.

Blanding Will Be Really Good

I'm not just talking about his pick (which was a great play) or his near pick (that he probably had if Canady didn't hit him).

No, he's just a real physical player that's in the right place at the right time. He shows no fear in the box. And in coverage, he can lay some wood.

I'm excited about his prospects.

Andrew Brown Has A Long Way To Go

He barely saw the field, but his snaps weren't pretty. In the fourth quarter, Richmond would run to his side, and he would just get up field too quickly without keeping contain. The runs resulted in a couple long gains.

That said, he no doubt has the skills to be a starter sooner rather than later. But I was expecting him to be an instant starter -- that won't be the case. Maybe a little later in the season, but not anytime in the next few games.

NOTE: I love how Brown sprints from the sideline to the field and then from the field to the sideline. It shows his intensity and hustle. I wish more players did this.

Conclusion

Basically, the defense has been really good while the offense has been pretty bad.

The defense will keep us in most games. But if we want to win some games, we need two things to happen:

1) Pick a Quarterback -- Like I said, I prefer Johns. But it's not like Lambert has been awful either. Whichever guy we choose, we need to choose soon. I'm sorry, but we're not beating Louisville (or most teams) with a QB rotation.

2) Switch up the run game -- It seems like we have two run plays: a draw up the gut, and a draw up the gut with a pulling guard. And neither works. Sophomore QB's will not win us ball games. We need an effective running game. I don't care if we're in the pistol or under center, but we can't keep running draws out of the shotgun.

In the preseason predictions, I have us beating Louisville next week. Honestly, it could happen. We have the talent to do so. It's a matter of can we play a complete game and, most importantly, establish the run.

I feel better about the team than I did when the year began, but we still have a long way to go. We need ONE quarterback and a run game.

I'd be shocked if we reach six wins with the vanilla, two-QB offense we're running now.

UVa football 2014: PREDICTION TIME

Does this really even need an introduction?

We know the team. The talent that could prevail but likely won't. At least that's what history tells us.

Here are my picks.

Saturday, August 30: vs. UCLA

I feel stupid even writing this one. Preseason No. 7 by USA Today. No. 5 by Sports Illustrated. Get ready for another Oregon-like drubbing.

These guys are just too good. We have decent ACC-level talent. They have national-title-contender-level talent.

I expect Brett Hundley to have a field day against us.

Prediction: UCLA 45, Virginia 17

Saturday, September 6: vs. Richmond

This prediction is just as easy as the last one; except this time, the game is clearly in our favor.

Listen, as bad as we were last season, we are still leaps and bounds above FCS programs like Richmond. 

Before the VMI game last season, I would hear some people say, "I don't know, we're pretty bad. VMI could have a shot."

NO! Richmond, unlike VMI, is a respectable FCS program. But they cannot touch ACC football.

Prediction: Virginia 42, Richmond 13

Saturday, September 13: vs. Louisville

I know Teddy Bridgewater is gone. I know Charlie Strong is gone. But Louisville is still a force to reckon with.

New head coach Bobby Petrino is a great football coach (whether be is a great person is a better question). He lead Western Kentucky to a 8-4 record last season after he left with Arkansas.

Furthermore, Louisville still has NFL caliber talent. Look no further than WR DeVante Parker (although he'll miss the game with a foot injury). Also see their defense, which was second in the country in points allowed (12.2!).

But it'll be our third straight home game, while it will be the Cardinals's first on the road. The intangibles will be in our favor.

Plus, the Louisville defense was so good because of their defensive line. But three of last year's starters are now gone, including AAC player of the year Marcus Smith.

Sometimes you lose games you shouldn't lose (we're all too familiar with this one). But sometimes you win games you shouldn't necessarily win. I think this can be one of those wins.

Call me crazy, but we should be hitting our stride three weeks into the season. I think we pull the upset in a low scoring affair.

Prediction: Virginia 20, Louisville 17

Saturday, September 20: at BYU

But as soon as the optimism in predictions began, it ended. I don't like anything about our matchup against BYU.

For the sake of these predictions, let's take history into account. UVa has never performed well the week after pulling an upset. If they were to beat Louisville, there's no way we prevail over BYU.

But even if we isolate this game, I don't like our chances. First off, it's on the road -- across the country. Mike London has only won the opening road game once in his tenure in Charlottesville. That was against Indiana in 2011. And we probably shouldn't even have won that game.

Add in the fact that QB Taysom Hill passed for nearly 3,000 yards last season while also adding over 1,300 on the ground, and you have to be a little frightened. Hill is a preseason Heisman hopeful for a reason.

The Cougar defense will take a step back with the loss of Kyle Van Noy, but not far enough that we can keep up with their offense.

Prediction: BYU 27, Virginia 16

Saturday, September 27: vs. Kent State

I could see some lower level teams giving us some trouble. But not Mid-American Conference foe Kent State. 

The Golden Flashes finished 4-8 last season. Their wins came against Liberty, Western Michigan, Miami (Oh.) and Ohio. 

Now, we certainly cannot overlook Kent State. They only lost to Ball State by three. We lost to them by 21.

But since it's our fourth home game in our first five contests, I still have to give us the edge.

Prediction: Virginia 31, Kent State 20

**Note: If we lose this game, Mike London ought to be fired before he leaves the stadium. It won't be the easiest win, but a loss here is absolutely unacceptable.

Saturday, October 4: vs. Pittsburgh

I'm stuck on this one. I really am.

In one sense, I see Pittsburgh as an extremely young team. Nine of their projected starters are sophomores. Plus they're losing QB Tom Savage and WR Devin Smith on offense and DT Aaron Donald on defense.

But then I see a trap game that Virginia just might lose. Pitt is nothing special, but neither are we. They have had some solid recruiting classes and are certainly a team on the rise.

My biggest concern is their opening schedule. Their first five games before us are against Delaware, Boston College, FIU, Iowa, and Akron. Not exactly the toughest stretch.

I don't know if I should look at this and see a confident team that's hungry for a slightly more legitimate win or a team that's just not ready for more physical competition? Right now, I'm leaning towards the latter.

My brain says to mark us down for a loss. But there's something deep down inside me that's saying (in Lee Corso's voice), "Not so fast!"

Maybe it's just preseason optimism, but I'm going with the Cavaliers!

Prediction: Virginia 17, Pitt 14

Saturday, October 18: at Duke

Remember the days when Duke was an afterthought? When Duke was the equivalent of a Richmond? An easy win?

Those memories are starting to fade away for me too.

I don't know what it is about the Blue Devils, but we just can't figure them out. I thought we finally had them last season, jumping out to a 22-0 lead. 

But then Duke scored 35 unanswered. That's why Scott Stadium is half empty.

Enough complaining, though. As much as I hate to admit it, Duke was actually pretty good last season; a 10-4 record plus an appearance in the ACC Championship game isn't too shabby.

David Cutcliffe -- who trained both Peyton and Eli Manning -- is a remarkable coach. And his spread offense has always given Virginia fits.

While the Blue Devil defense is nothing to call home about, the offense is efficient and can be explosive. The Duke troubles continue.

Prediction: Duke 31, Virginia 24

Saturday, October 25: vs. North Carolina

Again with the spread offenses. We just can't handle them. I don't know why, but if you just spread our defense out and throw the bubble screen, you'll pick up 5-10 yards every time. It's that simple.

That's UNC secret formula to beating Virginia. They've done it now four consecutive years. Let me rephrase that: Mike London has never beat UNC. The last time we beat the Tar Heels in 2009, Al Groh was still patrolling the sidelines.

UNC is No. 23 in the preseason AP poll. After losing five of their first six games to start 2013, they won six of their last seven (only loss to Duke) to finish the season. 

We might be able to attack UNC's 4-2-5 defense with our rushing attack. But against a spread offense, I believe our defense will give up too many points for the young offense to keep pace.

Prediction: North Carolina 34, Virginia 20

Saturday, November 1: at Georgia Tech

If this game was in Charlottesville, I'd be inclined to give us the edge. But it's not. It's in Atlanta, which means I'm picking the Jackets. 

The best way to stop Georgia Tech's triple option is with a dominant defensive line. The Yellow Jackets finished 7-6 last season, and every loss was to a team that was more physical at the line of scrimmage -- Virginia Tech, Miami, BYU, Clemson, Georgia, and Ole Miss.

I think we have the defensive line to really control the Georgia Tech rushing attack. Plus with a year under our belt's in Jon Tenuta's system, I don't think we have the same mental errors that plagued us last season when we fell 35-25.

Still, the game is in Atlanta. And it's a proven fact that this team just doesn't travel well. Especially the offense.

A physical, swarming defense will give us a chance, but I just can't see us winning on the road.

Prediction: Georgia Tech 21, Virginia 16

Saturday, November 8: at Florida State

Just like UCLA in the opener, I question why I even give an explanation.

FSU is ranked No. 1 in every preseason poll out there. They have the physical defense (1st in scoring defense at 12.1 points per game) and the explosive offense (2nd in scoring offense at 51.6 points per game).

And even though I still make fun of Famous Jameis for snatching a few unpaid-for crab legs, he won the Heisman Trophy for a reason. He was the best player in football.

Let's just try to keep within 50 points.

Prediction: Florida State 54, Virginia 10

Saturday, November 22: vs. Miami

So at this point, we're 4-6. Two wins away from bowl eligibility. But a fifth straight loss would again make this season a disappointment. And it also puts London into about the hottest seat you can imagine.

But if we mak it this far, I think we rally. The players love Mike London, and they will put it all on the line.

It also doesn't hurt that London is 3-1 against Miami. And if you read my observations from last season's 45-26 loss to Miami, hopefully you'll agree that we should have won that game. Miami scored 28 points off of four turnovers. There's you're difference.

I don't understand it, but I'll go with it. Cavs in the upset!

Prediction: Virginia 34, Miami 28

Friday, November 28: at Virginia Tech

So it all comes down to this. Virginia vs. Virginia Tech. The Commonwealth Cup will decide whether we can determine our season successful on two different levels -- bowl eligibility and and beating Tech.

These past two seasons, we've narrowed the gap between the programs. Or rather, Tech has simply gotten worse.

Regardless, we had every opportunity to win in Blacksburg two years ago. And last season's loss was just the product of our anemic offense. Eli Harold and the defense played their hearts out.

If there's a year to beat the Hokies, it's 2014. Tech's defense will be dominant, as usual. But that's about all that is guaranteed for the Hokies as they enter the season.

The quarterback battle is ongoing, which is never a good sign. They lack an elite running back (when Virginia Tech has been good this past decade, they've always had an elite-level running back). And there offensive line is as porous as ours (okay, maybe not that bad, but you get the point).

This isn't the same Tech program that has sent the Hoos from Hooville crying Boo-Hoo for 10 consecutive years. And upsets can happen any weekend -- that's the beauty of college sports.

I say we beat Tech (finally!) and go bowling!

Prediction: Virginia 19, Virginia Tech 13

Tuesday, December 30: Music City Bowl vs. Tennessee

This is as good of a guess as I can give. If we're at an even 6-6, the Music City Bowl is a likely scenario. And Tennessee is a midlevel SEC team. They'll reach six or seven wins I assume. 

So why not? Close enough for me!

Unfortunately, I just can't pick us against any SEC team. The strength of Virginia in 2014 will be the defensive front seven. And even if we are considered good in the ACC, SEC football is just on a different level. Their offensive line will be able to handle us.

And on offense, our o-line will falter under that SEC speed and athleticism. 

But 6-7 ain't too shabby.

Prediction: Tennessee 24, Virginia 14

Final Thoughts...

When I started this post, I did not expect to have us bowl eligible. Even though I made these predictions, I still have a tough time buying them.

Richmond and Kent State should be wins. But other than that, every other pick is an upset. 

Are we really going to start out 4-2 with wins against Louisville and Pitt? Will we really lose four straight before upsetting Miami and Virginia Tech?

Honestly, it doesn't seem likely. Maybe it's just preseason optimism.

Point being: it's tough to find six wins on the schedule. We could just as easily be 3-9 or 2-10. That means London and co. are out.

But what I keep trying remind myself is this: we will be better in 2014. How much remains to be determined. But we will be better.

The defense will be good. It's Tenuta's system, so we'll still give up big plays and hence more points than we'd like. But whether it be with dominance at the line of scrimmage or forcing turnovers, the defense should keep us in most games. At least into the third quarter.

On offense, Lambert will outperform Watford's 2013 season. There's no where to go but up. The running backs are a deep group, and the emergence of some young guys at receiver has me hopeful.

The offensive line is the real question mark. Likely, they won't improve from 2013. But if everyone around them improves, that might be good enough for six wins.

At the end of the day, these picks are what they are -- educated guesses. I feel as if hope might have trumped rational reasoning on a few picks. But what the heck -- it's College Football!!! ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN!!!

And if the season goes like this, I think the Wahoo Faithful will be pleasantly satisfied.

To love or to hate? UVa football edition

Today's number is -- 2. That's how many bowl games we've been to since the 2005 season. The Gator Bowl in 2007 (9-4 season record) and the Chick-fil-a Bowl in 2011 (8-5 season record).

We haven't won a bowl game since then QB Marques Hagans played the game of his career to lead us back against Minnesota in the Music City Bowl in 2005. To put this in perspective, I had just turned 11.

Six wins. That's the goal. A bowl game.

Obviously, that's much easier said than done. Especially for a team that barely squeaked out two wins last season. TWO WINS! That's still tough to swallow.

On paper, we seem to have the talent to reach the respectably-okay-threshold that is six wins.

But also on paper is a 12 game schedule that's no walk in the park. In fact -- with the exception of the SEC schedules -- it's one of the toughest in the nation.

So which will it be? Will the talent on our roster finally gel, carrying us to a bowl game and a sixth season with Mike London at the helm? Or will Jon Oliver's overaggressive scheduling tear the team down even further?

I'll preview the season game by game in the coming days. But for now, forget the schedule. How does this team come together? What will help us and what will hurt us?

What is there to love? And what is there to hate?

Love...

• Defensive Continuity

The defense returns nine of last season's 11 starters. Both losses were on the defensive line -- DT Brent Urban was drafted in the fourth round by the Ravens (Note: he has since torn his ACL in training camp) and LDE Jake Snyder was signed as an undrafted free-agent by the Vikings. 

Still, neither of these losses will hurt too much. Urban was disruptive when on the field, but his successors aren't too shabby themselves. Five-star freshman Andrew Brown -- the high school national Gatorade player of the year -- and former four-star sophomore Donte Wilkins will do just fine in the middle.

Replacing Snyder will be former four-star junior Mike Moore -- who was one of the most improved players on the team in spring ball. Preseason All-ACC selections Eli Harold and David Dean will man the other two spots on the defensive line.

The return of the Orange Crush defense?

At linebacker, Henry Coley, Daquan Romero, and Max Valles will return. Valles will be a more polished pass rusher, while Coley looked like a first-team All-ACC performer in spring ball. 

And in the back end, we of course have All-American safety Anthony Harris returning from his nation-leading eight-interception season. Add Maurice Canady, Demetrious Nicholson, Drequan Hoskey, and Branden Phelps, and you've got one of the better corner groups in the country. And don't forget about five-star safety Quin Blanding -- who will start at free safety in place of Phelps, who is a natural cornerback.

You have to be excited about this group's potential. Before injuries took their toll on the unit last season, this group was one of the best in the country. The Pitt game was utter domination. And this year, I think we have the depth to still be competitive when the injury bug hits.

• Stable of Running Backs

In Kevin Parks, we have the only returning 1,000-yard rusher in the ACC. Parks was a machine last season. Not only did he pick up 4.5 yards a pop, but he was also second on the team with 38 receptions. 

Then you have Khalek Shepherd, who can do it all -- run, catch, and return. He's had some big play highlights over his career, such as his TD against Oregon last season and his swing pass he took to the house against LA Tech in 2012.

More celebrations like these, please.

Then enter former five-star running back Taquan "Smoke" Mizzell. After an injury plagued 2013, he's now apparently one of the top playmakers in training camp.

And don't sleep on Daniel Hamm. He ran very well against VMI, and has looked good in highlight videos on vasp.tv. 

You can read my running back preview for more thoughts/details, but this is a very, very deep group.

• Young Potential at Wide Receiver

I know we're all tired of reading the word "potential". That's all we've talked about under Mike London's tenure. 

Year after year our top-30 recruiting class has the "potential" to change the direction of the program. And year after year we're disappointed that these guys didn't pan out and/or didn't improve our record.

But this receiving core is young. Key contributors will be Keeon Johnson (sophomore), Kyle Dockins (RS sophomore), Andre Levrone (RS freshman), and possibly even Jamil Kamara and Doni Dowling (both true freshman). 

These guys could combine to form one hell of a group. Likely, that won't happen until 2015 (if it ever does...), but you have to be excited about the future at this position.

**Note: If you haven't read my WR preview (which you should), I think Levrone could be a huge breakout guy for us. In my opinion, he was the best receiver out there in spring practice.

Help me sound smart, Levrone!

***Note: Reports out of spring practice suggest that Kamara and Dowling could be consistent contributors to this offense. In the scrimmage yesterday (Wednesday, August 13), Dowling hauled in three touchdowns while Kamara also added a score.

• New Quarterback

Ahh... the constant dilemma for UVa football. Death, taxes, and quarterback questions. Welcome to Charlottesville, folks.

But after David Watford's less than memorable, downright embarrassing, whirlwind of a season, we now have a shimmer of hope. Enter Greyson Lambert.

Of course there're questions. Why couldn't he beat out Watford last season? Why does he keep throwing interceptions (two in spring game, many more in training camp highlights)?

Lead us to the promise land.

But with that skepticism comes flashes of competence. For example: Recruited by Alabama. Perfect height/weight measurables. Strong arm. Captain vote. Some nice strikes in training camp.

Remember, there's no guarantee Lambert's the chosen one. Remember Phillip Sims?

But Lambert is all we've got. So you bet your ass wahoo nation is all behind the Georgia native.

He can be the guy we've been waiting for.

Hate...

• Offensive Line Shuffle

Let's not kid ourselves here, though. The offense will struggle. And it won't necessarily be because of the skill positions.

Rather, it's due to the big-uglies up front. And on paper, it's not just going to be their large frames that are considered "ugly". Their play might draw a similar nickname as well.

With the loss of projected left tackle Jay Whitmire for most (if not all) of the season, we're running even thinner. Add in that Morgan Moses and Luke Bowanko were lost to the NFL and we've got ourselves five big question marks.

Currently, we have guards playing tackle (Conner Davis). Barely enough bodies to go two-deep. Possibly three-guys starting without a previous start. The concerns go on and on.

You can read my offensive line preview for more specifics, but the unit certainly is not inspiring any confidence.

I'd put the over/under at 4.5 different starting offensive line combinations. That's not exactly the continuity -- or talent, for that matter -- you hope for on your offensive line.

• No Tight End

With Jake McGee's departure, we have four tight ends on the roster. Oh, and one of them -- Mario Nixon -- has been lost to injury for the season. 

Senior Zachary Swanson is the only one of the bunch that has recorded more than one reception. He's also the only UVa tight end to actually gain a yard on a reception.

The other tight ends are junior Rob Burns -- a converted defensive end -- and true freshman Evan Butts. Not exactly the most inspiring group.

Swanson has no help. He doesn't look too happy here...

Swanson is a fine player. He's a good blocker that also has underrated hands (19 receptions for 173 yards last season). But he's the only guy. If he get's injured, we're screwed. And let's not even think about next season after Swanson leaves. Talk about a weak position.

What scares me the most is that the tight ends saw a good deal of targets last season. Now who knows if that was just Fairchild's offense or the fact that Watford wouldn't throw it more than five yards downfield.

Whatever the case was, Lambert -- a first year starter -- will likely often look for the big-bodied safety blankets. The lack of talent here could stunt Lambert's development.

• Inexperience on Offense

Notice a theme here? Most of the reasons to hate our team are due to the overall inexperience on offense. Other than Kevin Parks, can you think of another player who has had a significant impact on this unit for more than a year? I sure can't.

The offensive line might have a senior or two on it (honestly, who knows?). But other than that, where are the guys that will step up and be the leaders on this unit?

Yes, Kevin Parks is a captain, but he can't lead every position. Darius Jennings and Miles Gooch are seniors at receiver, but are they really the guys that underclassmen strive to imitate? I doubt it. Zach Swanson is a senior at tight end, but does he really even have anybody to lead?

I know Greyson Lambert is a captain, but we cannot forget that he's still a sophomore. He's been in the program for 3.5 years, but a sophomore isn't a junior or senior.

Remember, he's only a sophomore.

Parks is the only guy on offense that had a role in the Chick-fil-a bowl season. He's the only guy that can truly say that he's "been-there-done-that".

The starting receivers are likely to be sophomores (Johnson, Dockins). Probably three offensive linemen between Eric Smith, Tetlow/Matteo, Doull, and Sadiq will be sophomores. Not to mention our quarterback.

We have some hope since two of our four captains are offensive players. But it still looks like this unit will experience some serious trial-by-fire.

• Injuries

Injuries are just part of football. You can only complain so much. 

Injuries killed our defense last season, but we should have had better depth to fill those roles. Anybody who says their team stunk because of injuries simply doesn't know enough about football (unless you're Georgia, who lost basically every contributor on offense last season. I'm talking like three receivers, Todd Gurley for some time, and, sadly, even Aaron Murray late in the year).

So far in training camp, though, we've heard some tough injury news for the program. Andrew Brown and Demetrious Nicholson are still battling turf toe injuries. It's in question whether either will be 100% and able to play by August 30.

We need this guy back!

Add in Jay Whitmire and we've got ourselves potentially three starters that will be missing time when the season starts. Oh, and now Sadiq has a lower extremity injury.

Things could be a lot worse (ACL tears), but these injuries certainly are not ideal.

• Coaching Staff

Starting back in June, I began previewing the 2014 football team. And honestly, other than the offensive line and the tight ends, we have some pretty damn good talent. Enough talent to compete at a high level. Or so you would think.

So with all this talent, why is most of wahoo nation so down on this year's squad? Why are ticket sales at a record low? Why can't we win games?

The answer is simple -- the coaching staff. That includes Mike London as well as his assistants.

Let's start with the head coach. Mike London is a great man and an even better representative of the University. He fulfills all speaking engagements. He is very involved with student life on grounds. And he could not be more respectful to reporters, even when their questions primarily focus on his job security.

How long is his leash?

Furthermore, the players love him. Eli Harold chose UVa over Florida because he thought Mike London could be the father figure Harold never had. Harold's father left him when he was young. Talented, good-willed high school players choose Virginia because of Mike London. This cannot be overemphasized.

But at the same time, he has not produced results. Aside from 2011 when we won eight games, he has posted a single season record no better than 4-8. And in 2011, we beat Indiana, Idaho, and Florida State by a combined five points. Those games were toss-ups that we were fortunate enough to win. We could have just as easily been 5-7 that season.

At some points, London must win. 

And it's not just the losses -- it's the way we are losing. Clock mismanagement. Special team miscues. Questionable play calling. Lots of our losses come from coaching blunders.

Then we have the assistant coaching decisions. The special teams might have been the worst in the country under Anthony Poindexter. While Larry Lewis has improved the coverage units and muffed kick miscues, we still lack explosive returns.

The offense was pretty bad last season as well, although I will withhold judgment on Steve Fairchild until I see it operate with a different quarterback under center. After all, Fairchild did produce the first 1,000-yard UVa rusher in nearly a decade.

Will we see a revamped offense? It's up to these guys.

Even Jon Tenuta deserves some blame. I know injuries -- especially in the secondary -- hurt us last season. But the team needed to adjust and play to its strengths. Watching poor Tim Harris get torched by Sammy Watkins all game was just unfair to the freshman.

Oh yeah, and Tom O'Brien's presence did nothing of note other than contribute to run out our leading receiver.

In short, the coaching staff has failed on numerous levels. As the head man in charge, London obviously deserves the most heat.

Personally, I lost faith in this coaching staff after a blowout loss to Ball State. Plus, after cutting your win total in half for two consecutive years (from eight to four to two), I thought it was obvious a change at the top was needed.

But Craig Littlepage disagreed. Why? I'm not sure. But he did. And that's all that matters.

And even as preseason brings optimism to even the most pessimistic, the whole country knows London has only one more season to justify his head position.

But until he and his staff prove otherwise, I still consider them an impediment to the team's success.

Football Media Day Notes!

Twenty days. 

That's all that's left until our opening game (loss?) against preseason No. 7 UCLA. 

On Friday, our coaches and select players gathered in JPJ to discuss the upcoming season. There really weren't any surprise revelations during the event. Coaches ignored hot-seat questions, and instead focused on the returning talent. Players admitted they needed to play better in 2014.

These media days are just for the media. For writers to get new quotes for new stories. Vanilla answers all the way around.

Still, college football is less than three weeks away! Despite little reason for optimism, I'm still pretty damn excited!

So let's touch on a couple of the highlights from the press conferences.

• Quarterback Battle -- For the first time since London took over, I'm not talking about who will be the starting quarterback. That man is Greyson Lambert. Rather, I'm talking about who will take the No. 2 job. David Watford or Greyson Lambert? (I prefer Johns ... see QB preview from last week). Basically, the job is up in the air. No clarification was given, although it still seems the coaches want Watford to win. (Note: in highlights on vasp.tv, Watford has been the better of the two of late in training camp).

or 

• Quarterback Rotation? -- When asked how David Watford would fit into the offense, offense coordinator Steve Fairchild said Watford might have a few packages of his own. Mt response: ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Has London not learned his lesson? Since he took over in 2010, Mike London at some point in the season has employed some sort of QB rotation. AND IT NEVER WORKED. Watford has lost his job as the starting QB. Don't screw up Lambert by inserting Mr. overthrow-interception-or-scramble-to-the-side-for-a-loss for a series.

Watford had his chance. Please, no more.

• Running Back Depth -- It's no secret we have a stable of good backs (check out the RB preview from last month). Between Parks, Shepherd, Smoke, and Hamm, we have four quality runners that all want touches. Sadly for Hamm, as a walk-on, he'll get the fewest attempts. That leaves Parks, Shepherd, and Smoke. Parks will be the go-to guy, but coaches have acknowledged Smoke will have an increased role (probably the 3rd-down back). So where does that leave Shepherd? He'll probably be the positionless, do-it-all back. He'll help in the return game (ugh...) and be split out wide on occasion (he caught a TD pass from the slot in these highlights from training camp). Still, Shepherd seems to be the odd-man out.

Coaches like Shepherd, but are there enough touches to go around?

• Eli Harold is Bigger -- Eli Harold has gained 20 pounds from last season, and is now up to 248. That's big (pun intended) for our defense. Harold can be a dynamic pass rusher, but his lack of size has always created problems in the run game. With that extra bulk, Harold will hold up better against the run and should only improve his pass-rushing finesse. And as a side note, Max Valles has also gained weight (no specifics here). Now we'll have two bigger end rushers in our nickel package.
• Offensive Line Shuffle -- Our oline play was shaky last season. And then we lost two starters to the NFL. This group is going to struggle. The biggest problem is we have no clue who our starting five will be. In my oline preview, I predicted the starting five, from left to right, would be the following: Smith, Davis, Tetlow, Burbank, and Olanrewaju. So far, this group has not practiced together. Eric Smith has only played the right side, while Conner Davis has seen time at both tackle spots. Ryan Doull has seen time with the first unit at LG, while Jackson Matteo has also taken first-team reps at center. Through a week of camp, there has been a new starting five every day. It's safe to say we'll have no idea what this group will look like until August 30. (Note: they want to pick a starting five by two weeks before the opener).

Is this guard our LT?

• Secondary Switch Up -- With Demetrious Nicholson still battling his turf toe injury (more on that in a second), the starting four has flip-flopped. Our first team corners are Canady and Phelps, while the first team safeties are Anthony Harris and Quin Blanding. Phelps, who played safety each of the past two seasons, is now at his more natural position (as London admitted). Blanding has been impressive from what I hear. Even when Nicholson comes back, I see no reason to remove Blanding from the starting lineup. He's a top-10 recruit -- let him play. I'm surprised Hoskey's name didn't come up, but he'll be the starting nickelback covering the slot.

Finally. The cornerback is playing...cornerback.

• Starting Wide Receivers Still Unknown -- We came into camp with little idea of who our starting receivers would be. One week hasn't been enough to solve the puzzle. Expect Keeon Johnson to be the starting X-receiver, but outside of that, all is a mystery. Coach Hagans advised his players to not say a word about any possible lineup. London brought up Dockins, Severin, and Gooch as players that have impressed (they have a combined 17 career receptions...). Darius Jennings impressed in the spring, but there haven't been any recent reports on the senior. And freshmen Jamil Kamara and Doni Dowling are both expected to see time this season. Shouldn't at least one of them redshirt? Are our receivers that bad or are the first-years that good? I'm not sure even the coaching staff knows at this point.

Johnson...and who else?

• Injuries -- Unfortunately, injuries are a part of any sport. Especially collegiate football. So far, the biggest loss has been projected LT Jay Whitmire, who will miss most -- if not all -- of the season with a bad back. This loss has been part of the reason for the uncertainty along the offensive line. Prized recruit Andrew Brown -- along with Nicholson -- is still recovering from a lingering turf-toe injury. Both of these guys need to be on the field for the defense to succeed. A good pass-rush and secondary make a good defense. It's that simple. And the underachieving Dominique Terrell might or might not take a medical redshirt this season. Ultimately, it matters little. He had his chance. It's time to give that same opportunity to others.

I'm sure there are more nuggets, but those are the ones that stood out to me.

Future Posts -- I'm not sure how everything will shake out, but I know I'll have at least two detailed posts before football season begins. First will be a post outlining reasons for optimism and reasons for pessimism for the 2014 football team. Then probably the week before the season, I'll give my predictions for each game in 2014. I'll update y'all on Twitter in the coming days.