Spring "GAME"

I can't wait to see David Watford in action today.

Thanks to my wonderful wife being willing to take my terrific kids to Richmond to visit family today, I am lucky enough to be able to attend the lacrosse game vs. Maryland in Scott Stadium, and then the UVA Spring "Game."  (At least, I hope it's a true game and none of this offense vs. defense and situational drills bullcrap we've had to deal with lately.  Big time programs have spring GAMEs, dammit.)

I'll post all of my thoughts from today's action by the end of the weekend.  So stay tuned.

Meanwhile, if you have some time to burn, you can watch the spring game streaming live on ESPN3.  Tap it here!  Coverage starts at 2:30.


Some things I'll specifically be looking for at the spring game:

• The number of fans.  Is the event growing?  Or are we still toiling amid a swirl of fan apathy?
• The QB derby.  Four may enter, but only one (or maybe two) will emerge.  I think it's vitally important that we leave the spring with either a starting quarterback or a two-man battle that will unfold in the summer.  There are limited reps, and four guys sharing them is about two and a half too many.  My eyes will be glued to Ross Metheny, Mike Rocco, Michael Strauss, and David Watford today.
• Is Perry Jones ready to carry the load as the lead back?  Or are Kevin Parks, Khalek Shepherd, and/or Max Milien poised to command some carries?  Will we need incoming uberback Clifton Richardson to play as a true freshman, or will he be afforded the luxury of a redshirt?
• With Kris Burd and Tim Smith missing spring ball with injuries, and now with Matt Snyder banged up, which receivers will step up?  This is a golden opportunity for Miles Gooch, Ray Keys, Kevin Royal, E.J. Scott, and Bobby Smith to gain some traction in their bids for playing time.  If three of those five guys don't emerge, the table will be set for Darius Jennings and Dominique Terrell to see the field as true freshmen.  (Not necessarily a bad thing.)
• Is Colter Phillips the next star tight end at "Tight End U?"
• Is the o-line truly gelling into a difference-making unit and a true strength of the team?
• Is the defensive line ready to take a crucial step forward and improve on last season's shaky showing?
• Are the linebackers improved, and is LaRoy Reynolds ready to realize his star potential?
• Can the safeties cover anyone?
• With Devin Wallace off the team, who will be the #2 corner alongside Chase Minnifield?  Is Rijo Walker ready to emerge?  Has Dom Joseph battled his way into a relevant role?  Will the Hoos need Tra Nicholson to start from day one?
• Am I idiotic to have confidence in Robert Randolph as the placekicker?
• Overall, does the team look better than it did a year ago?