A league-high nine starters returned to a Virginia defense that ranked 24th in the nation a year ago. The entire front seven returns intact and that is certainly bad news to a conference that has so many question marks on offense.
A great defense can carry a team a long long way, and through the years Virginia has been very good on that side of the ball.
But this year's defense could be the best in years.
"Offense may win the game, but defense will win championships. We feel like we have to do what we have to do and offense is going to go out there and strive hard but the defense has to be solid for us to win," said Wali Rainer, a linebacker.
The Wahoos are chafing a bit after going 7 and 4 a year ago but missing out on the post-season. That snub drives this team. The Cavs don't want to be home for the holidays again.
Virginia still may not have what it takes to catch the Seminoles, but the Cavaliers loaded defense is sure to give the rest of the league fits.
• Credits
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