According to ESPN, the Virginia football team entered Saturday’s game in Chapel Hill as a 24-point underdog. The win marked the biggest upset by an ACC team since NC State beat second ranked FSU in 1998 when State was a 26.5-point dog. As for North Carolina, the loss was the largest upset loss for a UNC football team ever. The 24-point spread surpassed the Tar Heels’ loss to 21-point underdog Georgia Tech last November by a 21-17 score.

While the historical significance of the outcome is interesting, the compelling story is the way UVA played and delivered the outcome.

For the game, the Hoos graded out with an 85.67 – the highest combined operational grades of the season. What was so pertinent and satisfying is the way the team got to the final outcome.

Last weekend, in my Team Quick Notes Message Board Wisdom quotes I posted this: “Complementary football.” I’m sick of that cliche’. — HogsAndHoos I posted it because frankly I was getting sick of hearing it also. That said, complementary football was the key to victory Saturday. By complementary I mean, doing your job, your role as a player to the utmost of your capability. Dealing with adversity. Staying in the moment and not allowing the game to get too big. Being able to adapt and overcome adversity. Picking up your teammates.

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