The Sampler returns every week to take an appetizer style look at the Virginia football team’s most recent game. Unfortunately, for UVA fans, that means reading more details about a loss again this week after the Hoos fell 44-26 at Oregon on Saturday.

In that contest, the Cavaliers had two more turnovers (both interceptions by quarterback Kurt Benkert) on offense, gave up a ton more yards (632) on defense, and remained winless on the road since 2012. Still, the coaches, the players, and some fans left the game with the Ducks feeling much more optimistic than before the game.

Why? The Richmond loss in the opener came by a similar spread with similar issues after all and Virginia is yet to have a lead in Bronco Mendenhall’s debut season. The answer, at least for fans, is rooted in expectations. Few expected problems with the Spiders and few expected a win at Autzen Stadium. Stumbling all around Scott Stadium in the opener came with some shock and some bitterness, while showing perseverance at Oregon provided a silver lining and some hope.

But what about the coaches and players? Why so optimistic after an 18-point loss? Monday, that answer seemed to hinge on one important theme: progress. The Hoos saw fewer mistakes, a more sustained effort, and a much better attitude about the game. Quarterback Kurt Benkert said he saw it as a complete 180 in terms of sideline demeanor.

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