CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. —
This season, the Virginia Cavaliers hope to showcase a power running game.
They’re off to a good start after employing it in last Saturday’s 34-13 win against Richmond. U.Va. (1-0) rushed for 205 yards, helped by senior tailback Keith Payne’s 114 rushing yards and four touchdowns.
They want to do the same on Saturday, but realize the challenges when they take on No. 16 Southern California (1-0).
Under new coach Mike London and offensive coordinator Bill Lazor, the Cavaliers want to improve on last season’s anemic rushing attack, which averaged less than 100 yards per game and was part of the reason for the school’s 3-9 record.
“We wanted to make a statement, in terms of the running game opportunities, with the two styles of running backs we have with Perry Jones and Keith Payne,” London said. “We have to be able to run the ball in order to set up the play-actions that come off that.”
Jones had 73 yards on nine carries.
“Later in the game, it was apparent we could run the ball because we were just wearing them down,” London said.
“It was good to see that there were opportunities to make holes and for the backs to get through the holes. The running game has got to be an important aspect of our offense.”
This weekend, the Cavaliers will have to try to make their game work against a team with a stingy rushing defense. On Sept. 2, the Trojans allowed only 129 yards on the ground in a 49-36 win over Hawaii.
“You have to take some time off the clock against Southern Cal. It’s a team that plays fast and tries to capitalize on things you don’t do.
“We need to keep the clock running with the running game, short passes.”
College Sports
Virginia showcases power running game
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