10 Things I Learned Vs. MTSU

Coach Al Groh’s team is 5-1.

Halfway through the season and the Hoos are 5-1. Had you offered that midseason record to Hoo fans prior to the season, I suspect that you would have had a lot of takers. And yet, after a nailbiter against Middle Tennessee State University, many fans seem puzzled by the product they see on the field. I can understand that perspective; after all, UVa is winning a lot of games at the margins this year. But they are winning, and that makes breaking down the game a lot more fun.

1. Another step in the right direction? I know, I know, many of you have spent many a sleepless night since the win wondering whether I again would claim that this week’s win was another step in the right direction. I suppose, in a sense, that you could say this was another step in the right direction. After all, it was a win, and wins are not guaranteed at this level no matter who the opponent (Appalachian State, anyone?). Plus, UVa posted its fifth win in a row. Plus, UVa beat an opponent that despite its record is far from being without talent. Plus, UVa beat a team that was playing as well as it has all season (and no, that is not only because we were letting them do it). Plus, UVa won a road game against a non-conference opponent and wins like that have been few and far between. Plus, UVa pulled out the game despite all kinds of injuries going into, and then during, the game. A lot of positives there.

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