We will learn a great deal about Virginia this week.
After the Cavaliers (4-1) upset Florida State 46-38 (2OT), can they reset themselves and put together four quarters at undefeated Louisville?
The bookmakers don’t think so. Despite Virginia cracking the top 25 (ranked 24th), Louisville (4-0) is a seven-point favorite.
Keys:
Contain Miller Moss
Last week, Moss carved up Pitt in Louisville’s 34-27 comeback win at Pitt.
Moss threw 339 yards and three touchdowns. Two of the touchdowns came in the fourth quarter with the Cardinals down by seven.
Chris Bell will be a handful against a Virginia defense that is 12th in the ACC in pass yards defense.
If there’s something to point to on the defense that’s improving, it’s the pass rush. The Cavaliers are tied for third in the ACC in sacks. The best way for Virginia to deal with Moss is by getting him off his spot by pressuring and flushing him away from his natural reads downfield.
Take Care of the Ball
One of the more shocking aspects of Virginia’s win over Florida State is that they pulled off the upset despite committing three turnovers.
Last week, Louisville forced five turnovers, and that’s something Virginia can’t afford to do on the road.
Chandler Morris will need to be a lot more responsible with the ball and show that the three interceptions against Florida State were a blip on the radar.
Louisville is tied for first in the ACC in interceptions.
Stiff in the Middle
Louisville might not be the best rushing team in the ACC, but it will try to test the Cavaliers’ defensive line, especially in the middle.
Florida State did have a measure of success running Gavin Sawchuck in between the tackles.
Isaac and Keyjuan Brown should get chances early on to test Virginia’s run defense. If the Cardinals can have a measure of success running the ball, it will open up the passing game. That’s something the Cavaliers can’t afford.
