VIrginia Cavaliers Football: 2015 Season Preview and Prediction

Aug 30, 2014; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Virginia Cavaliers offensive players line up against UCLA Bruins defensive players in the third quarter at Scott Stadium. The Bruins won 28-20. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Offensive Outlook

For a while, Virginia seemed to be facing a bit of a quarterback drought. David Watford transferred, and Lambert transferred. But Virginia now has a transfer of its own from Arizona, Connor Brewer.

Brewer has had practically no playing time in the course of his college career. He started at Texas as a redshirt, then went to Arizona where he spent time as the backup quarterback last season. Although his lack of experience could be setting the Cavaliers up for yet another inconsistent quarterback on its roster, they also don’t have too much of a choice if they want to maintain some sort of depth in that particular position.

Going into fall practice, London has named junior Matt Johns the starting quarterback. Last season, Johns was Lambert’s back up and actually played in just as many games as Lambert did. He was especially crucial during the games Lambert sat out due to injury.

While not overly impressive, his stats look slightly better than Lambert’s on paper: eight touchdowns, five interceptions, and three sacks. The pressure will rest heavily on him and the coaching staff this season to develop quarterback play into a better, more consistent performance.

Elsewhere on the offense Cavalier fans may be able to find more inspiring news. Leaving spring practice, wide receivers Canaan Severin and T.J. Thorpe look strong. Running back Taquan Mizzell also returns to be Virginia’s major workhorse; he averaged 6.8 yards per carry last season and will always be a great option for his quarterback to go to in a tight spot.

Next: Defensive Outlook