From Virginia Cavaliers On SI · · 2m
Tony Elliott knows Rich Rod's offense all too well
Virginia's coach played under Rodriguez at Clemson and now faces his high-tempo West Virginia attack in Charlotte.
In brief
Virginia's coach played under Rodriguez at Clemson and now faces his high-tempo West Virginia attack in Charlotte. West Virginia's tempo and dual-threat backfield pose unique challenges that could test Virginia's defensive rotation and discipline. Originally reported by Virginia Cavaliers On SI.
Elliott knows Rodriguez's playbook
Virginia's head coach played receiver at Clemson when Rich Rod was offensive coordinator. He learned firsthand the strategies that made Rodriguez one of the game's top offensive minds.
Saturday's showdown in Charlotte
Rodriguez is in his second season back at West Virginia. Elliott's Cavaliers face the Mountaineers in a nonconference matchup.
Staying ahead of the chains
West Virginia avoids long yardage situations, then plays with tempo and aggression. They exploit defensive mistakes with explosive plays.
“They're staying ahead of the chains, so they're not having to convert long yardage. And then obviously, once they convert, now they can play with tempo.”
Virginia's defense has been dominant
The Cavaliers allowed just 11 points through two games. They held NC State to 168 yards and Norfolk State to 223, allowing 2.4 yards per rush.
Dual-threat backfield brings speed
Neither previous opponent matched West Virginia's tempo or had playmakers like quarterback Michael Hawkins and running back Cam Cook.
Hawkins and Cook pile up yards
Hawkins has 199 rushing yards, Cook has 194. Each has three touchdowns, including scoring runs of 71 and 72 yards. Hawkins also threw a 59-yard TD.
First tackler often misses
Virginia must be gap sound and arrive in swarms. The quarterback and backs make the first defender miss, and without a second tackler, plays extend for big gains.
“Typically what happens is with the quarterback or with their backs, the first guy doesn't get them to the ground. He makes the first guy miss.”
Tempo limits defensive substitutions
Virginia's deep defensive line rotation worked against NC State. But West Virginia's no-huddle pace may prevent free substitutions, causing tired legs late.
Jason Hammond out with injury
The starting defensive tackle suffered an elbow injury against Norfolk State and is unlikely to play. Darrion Henry-Young will start in his place.
Next man up mentality
Elliott is heartbroken for Hammond, who worked hard to return from past injuries. But other players must carry a bigger load for the team.
“It's the unfortunate part about football, it's the next man up. And sometimes you gotta carry a little bit bigger load than maybe you want to.”
What to remember
West Virginia's tempo and dual-threat backfield pose unique challenges that could test Virginia's defensive rotation and discipline.
