Virginia Football: Cavaliers could surprise, defend Coastal title in 2021

This could be the best offense yet under Bronco Mendenhall

If the Cavaliers can stay healthy, this has the potential to be the best offense that Bronco Mendenhall has had since being at Virginia.

At quarterback, Brennan Armstrong is back and if he can stay healthy and get more consistent throwing the football, he could be one of the better quarterbacks in the ACC. Armstrong threw for over 2,000 yards and 18 touchdowns last season, but he also threw 11 interceptions, which is far too many. Armstrong is a talented dual-threat quarterback and I think that he could be in for a big season if he can stay healthy for all 12 games.

The rushing attack should be the focal point of the offense. Last year’s starter Wayne Taulapapa is returning and while he should be the team-leading ball carrier, he is not the only talented back that the Cavaliers have. Mike Hollins opted out of the 2020 season, but he is really talented and should provide a boost to an already solid running game. Watch out for Indiana transfer Ronnie Walker Jr to make an impact as well.

This might be the best group of receivers that Mendenhall has had while at Virginia. The Cavs are going to be missing Lavel Davis Jr, who injured his knee during the spring, but there is still plenty of talent on this receiving corps. Former Mississippi State transfer quarterback Keytaon Thompson has emerged as a threat at receiver and Billy Kemp IV and Ra’Shaun Henry are going to make an impact as well.

The offensive line is returning all five of their starters and it is a physical group up front that should lead the way for the offense.