For the Virginia football team in 2023, the running backs provided an area of veteran experience and leadership. With Mike Hollins, Perris Jones, and others in the backfield, Cavalier fans didn’t have to worry about this position much as it had tons of talent and depth. Now, fifth-year senior Kobe Pace is expected to take on a much larger role for the Virginia offense in 2024.

Because of struggles on the offensive line, the running game didn’t provide as much of a boost last season as the team would’ve hoped for. With an additional year of experience and a couple new faces up front, it seems like Virginia could be poised for a stronger year running the football. Pace showed glimpses of his versatility and talent a season ago, but could now be a workhorse back for the Hoos.

“As of right now, he’s the number one guy,” Virginia running backs coach Keith Gaithers said. “Kobe’s got more in him. I think part of it is Kobe just having full confidence in himself. Going into year two in the offensive system, we want him to emerge and take the next step in the game. You know the offense, so now just play carefree. We’re trying to get him to let go and let loose, so he can be way more consistent instead of the highs and the lows. A lot of that has to do with between the ears and that’s my job, interjecting confidence in him and he’s done a good job. He’s done a really good job.”

Pace comes to UVA from Cedartown, Georgia, where he attended Cedartown High School. Ranked as a 3-star recruit, Pace initially committed to and attended Clemson. While with the Tigers, he spent his first two seasons playing for assistant Tony Elliott. Elliott served as the running backs coach for Pace’s freshman season and offensive coordinator both his freshman and sophomore seasons.

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