I don’t know what I could say about the status of the program that hasn’t already been lamented, cursed, questioned, or vilified. So instead of looking back, I’ll look forward.

Bronco Mendenhall says he likes challenges. Looking at it through that prism, I think it’s been confirmed that he made the right decision in coming to Charlottesville. He got one.

I think Virginia fans saw Mendenhall’s pedigree and expected (hoped) a turnaround would be imminent. But in his introductory press conference, Virginia’s new coach, although deftly word-smithed, I don’t think he offered an unrealistic expectation.

“I love challenge. After visiting with the team today, it became very clear today that that’s what this team needs, and I think for the most part wants. We’ll find that out once the challenge starts, but I think that’s what they do want. I think they’re hungry for success, and I believe I specialize in accountability and discipline and effort. I’m an effort-based coach. I love more than anything guys that try hard. I relish in that.

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