With spring practice in the books, the Virginia football team now sets its sights on the annual Blue-White Spring Game this Saturday at Scott Stadium. After all the work that has been going on behind the scenes, the players and coaches will finally get a chance to showcase the improvements they’ve made, and Wahoo nation will finally get answers to some of its biggest questions.

If Saturday is your first taste of UVA football since last year, here are five things to look for on the defensive side of the ball this weekend.

James Jackson’s Comfort Level

Saturday will mark the first time junior linebacker James Jackson will be making calls in a live game setting. Jackson has shown confidence throughout the spring in his ability to excel in the new role, but Saturday will be telling as to whether he is truly as comfortable as he says.

As has been well documented throughout the spring, James will be replacing standout middle linebacker Nick Jackson, who has decided to suit up for Iowa next season. Jackson was a three-time All-ACC selection who led the ACC with 10.4 tackles per game last season in addition to posting 5 sacks, 4 QB hurries, 7.5 tackles for loss, and 4 pass break-ups. He was also voted UVA Defensive MVP by his peers. Those are obviously big shoes to fill, but Saturday will give us the first glimpse as to whether James Jackson is up for the challenge.

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