The offensive line continues to be a big topic for Virginia this month. As the football team prepares for the 2015 season, there has been talk since the spring of a shift on offense. While there will still be some spread elements at times, the Cavaliers have turned to more power running schemes on offense and that means the offensive line needs to be up to the task.

UVa coach Mike London discussed the decision-making process behind the switch before a practice session this month.

“One, the offensive line guys that we have back is an experienced group,” London said. “Coach Dave Borbely is an excellent technician and understands the little nuances about running, blocking, angles, and leverage. You add Chris Beatty to the staff who just came from Wisconsin and one of the best running backs in college football [in Melvin Gordon]. … You take that collectively and you add it all together there’s elements of the players’ ability and the coaching ability. The offensive line has to be one of the strengths of this year’s team. Being able to run the ball can help in a lot of ways. That’s our mentality.”

The Hoos have a big hill to climb when it comes to rushing offense. In 2014, they ranked 13th in the ACC and 100th in the nation at 137.75 rushing yards per game. That came on the heels of a 2013 season where they ranked ninth in the ACC and 77th in the nation at 156.58 rushing yards per game despite having a 1,000-yard rusher in Kevin Parks. Offensive coordinator Steve Fairchild said he takes the blame for 2014’s issues with a run offense that was too much finesse.

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