It’s hard to judge the Virginia Cavalier offense because they haven’t played anyone with a pulse over the first four games. The best defense they’ve faced is NC State, and they allow 29 points per game, 6.16 yards per play, and 4.19 yards per rush. Opposing offenses convert third downs 48 percent of the time.
The crazy part is that Virginia blew a 10-point halftime lead and lost that game, only scoring seven points in the second half. Some questions remain about FSU’s defense, but it wouldn’t be going out on a limb to suggest it’s much better than what NC State brings to the table.
The good news is that Virginia runs some similar offensive concepts that FSU sees at practice each day with Gus Malzahn. They shouldn’t be too shocked by anything they see, and they’ve had multiple weeks to prepare for this game.
Virginia may have some success early, but ultimately, it doesn’t appear they have the horses to stop FSU on offense. If the defense plays well, they should win this game comfortably. Here are my three major defensive keys to winning the game.