Final Score: University of Richmond- 19, University of Virginia- 43
What Happened: The Cavaliers did what they were expected to do, winning in convincing fashion over Richmond, the over-matched FCS opponent. The Spider defensive line failed to get any pressure on UVA starting QB Michael Rocco, and he made them pay early and often. UVA running backs Perry Jones and Kevin Parks also found success on the ground for the Cavs.
Spider Positives: Starting quarterback John Laub and the offense showed flashes, which is as good as you can expect against a defense as strong as Virginia's. Receivers Ben Edwards and Stephen Barnette and tight end Kevin Finney proved to be reliable targets for Laub. Even more encouraging was the work of the offensive line in protecting Laub, allowing no sacks. On defense, Richmond held its own into the fourth quarter before the UVA ground game wore on them and the 5- and 6-yard runs turned into 10- and 11-yard runs. The Danny Rocco era starts with a loss, but the potential looks to be there.
Spider Negatives: As a whole, the team looked flustered from the start. The offense went three-and-out a couple times to start the game and the defense allowed UVA to drive into the end zone at will. The offense also went through some problems snapping the ball, with one of the bad snaps resulting in a safety. Overall, the kickoff coverage wasn't good enough today, and the defense allowed way too many yards after contact.
Up Next: The Spiders will hold their home opener next Saturday, taking on Gardner-Webb. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
Contact staff writer David Weissman at david.weissman@richmond.edu
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