Virginia vs. Richmond Prediction, Game Preview
Virginia vs. Richmond prediction and game preview for the opening contest of the 2016 season. Find out who's projected to win the matchup between the
Virginia vs. Richmond prediction and game preview for the opening contest of the 2016 season. Find out who’s projected to win the matchup between the Cavaliers and the Spiders.
Virginia vs. Richmond Game Preview
Broadcast Info
Date: Saturday, Sept. 3, 2016
Kickoff: 3:30 p.m. ET
Venue: Scott Stadium, Charlottesville, VA
Television Station: ESPN3
Virginia vs. Richmond Storylines
The Cavaliers are now led by Bronco Mendenhall, who took his BYU teams bowling in all 11 of his seasons. Mike London did not leave the cupboard bare in Charlottesville, so competitive ball should be expected. The Hoos will begin the season with East Carolina transfer Kurt Benkert as starting quarterback after he won a tight battle with Matt Johns and Connor Brewer.
The Spiders, meanwhile, are favorites in the Colonial Athletic Association after putting together a 10-win campaign last year. Quarterback Kyle Lauletta led the league’s best passing offense, but his top two running backs are gone. Richmond had to replace both coordinators after last season, but John Garrett (offensive) and Chris Cosh (defensive) have extensive college coaching experience.
Richmond vs. Virginia Betting Odds
Spread: Virginia -12
Over/Under: NA
Matchup to Watch
Quin Blanding vs. Kyle Lauletta
Virginia has one of the nation’s best safeties in Quin Blanding, who was an all-ACC first-team selection last season. He’s a ball-hawking safety who will be playing against a potent FCS offense led by Lauletta, who has playmakers around him. Brian Brown led the CAA in receiving at 111.5 yards per game in 2015, so Blanding will need to help limit the big plays.
Advantages
Offense: Richmond. Even with a new offensive coordinator, the Spiders will be potent.
Defense: Virginia. In addition to Blanding, linebacker Micah Kiser was an all-ACC first-team selection.
Special Teams: Richmond. The Hoos had a poor special teams efficiency rating last season.
Coaching: Even. Spiders head coach Danny Rocco has an 80-38 career mark at Liberty and Richmond, but Mendenhall is a proven commodity as well.
Intangibles: Even. Richmond has a chance to spring an upset, but UVA is looking to put behind a 4-8 season with a new head coach.
Richmond vs. Virginia Prediction
The Spiders will keep it close deep into the fourth quarter, but a key turnover and defensive stop will allow the Cavs to hold on and escape with the win.
Final Score Prediction For Richmond vs. Virginia: Virginia 23, Richmond 19
