Ras-I Dowling returns to Charlottesville to take care of unfinished business on the field and in the classroom.

Virginia’s cornerbacks are one of the highlights of this season’s squad. An experienced core group returns, led by “The 757’s Finest” Ras-I Dowling, and the battle for playing time between two talented defensive backs will ensure a high caliber of play across the board. There were some key losses at the position, but, like the shuffle that happened with regard to the defensive line, players from other spots could move in or be converted to fill any holes on the depth chart. Overall, there is strength at the top, room for improvement farther down the roster, and hope for the future.

The biggest issue the defensive backs had last season was their lack of physicality at the line of scrimmage. The DBs, or the defensive calls, seemed to refuse to challenge wide receivers off the line. They often had to play catch-up rather than staying step-for-step with their opponent. All of that will change this year (expect to see more bump-and-run coverage calls), as the corners are looking to make a big statement and play some hard-hitting, physical football.

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