Virginia’s rushing attack proved unstoppable in 2025, compiling 2,502 yards on the ground – the third‑most in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The team also found the end zone on 29 rushing touchdowns, positioning the ground game as a cornerstone for the upcoming season.
Coach Tony Elliott has long preached disciplined football, and the numbers bear him out: the Cavaliers surrendered just 45.2 penalty yards per game last year, the second fewest in the league. That discipline will be essential as the team integrates new pieces.
A Veteran Squad and Strategic Additions
The 2026 roster represents the most experienced group in all of college football. Returning backs such as McKale Boley, Noah Josey and Monroe Mills earned All‑ACC honors in 2024, while Drake Metcalf, who missed the accolade by a narrow margin, is expected to contend again. Adding transfers Peyton Lewis and Jekail Middlebrook bolsters depth at running back and along the line.
The offensive line, which gave up only the third‑fewest sacks in the ACC, now welcomes back Makilan Thomas, fully healthy, and benefits from the arrivals of Ryan Brubaker and Alex Payne. The combination of elite depth and seasoned front‑line play should keep quarterbacks upright and open lanes for the backs.
With a schedule that tests the Cavaliers against traditional powerhouses, the blend of a potent run scheme, disciplined execution and a wealth of experience positions Virginia to challenge for an ACC title in 2026.