Hoo Preview 2012: Snyder Slides In As Leader

Jake Snyder is Virginia’s only returning starter on the defensive line.

Consistently winning the battle up front was a big factor in the Virginia football team’s turn-around year in 2011. Offensively, the Cavaliers were fourth in the ACC in total offense, averaging almost 400 yards per game. Defensively, UVa was third in the ACC in total defense thanks in part to a veteran defensive line. More often than not, that unit was able to control the line of scrimmage to prevent big plays on the ground. The Cavaliers must replace three out of four starters up front in 2012 so junior defensive end Jake Snyder , the lone returning starter, will be relied upon heavily to keep the unit’s momentum going.

After splitting time with Zane Parr his freshman year, Snyder became a full-time starter in 2011. Snyder had a breakout game against Georgia Tech with a season-high 7 tackles. Two weeks later, Snyder wreaked havoc against the Miami offense in front of a national television audience. He recorded his first career sack, broke up a pass, and recovered a fumble against the Canes. Snyder continued to improve throughout the season, and finished his sophomore campaign with 36 tackles.

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