Over one-third of the season is complete. Virginia is now 4-0 and has concluded what amounts to the “dress rehearsal” portion of 2004. The Wahoo Nation is exactly where we wanted to be as the team prepares for next week’s nationally-televised game with Clemson.

With the month of September essentially behind us, it is a good time to take a close look at how the team has performed so far. How UVa’s strengths have been deployed and those projected weaknesses managed.

Before the season I identified eight key indicators that had to be met successfully for the ‘Hoos to accomplish a “special season” and challenge for the ACC title:

1) Demonstrate the ability to run the ball

2) Get consistent play from the quarterback position

3) Successful maturation of the secondary

4) Remain healthy

5) Keep opponents under 17 points a game

6) Hold opponents under 3.0 yards per carry

7) Win on the road

8) Find a productive punter

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