Thursday, September 10, 2009

Pregame Analysis: No. 16 TCU vs. Virginia

Texas Christian University opens its season riding high. Going back to last season, TCU has won six in a row, including a Poinsettia Bowl victory over then-undefeated Boise State. TCU returns a terrifying defense for the 2009-2010 season, including All-American defensive end Jerry Hughes, who was the nation's sack leader last year.

Virginia, on the other hand, is coming off of a home loss against the College of William and Mary, 14-26. William and Mary forced seven turnovers, including a fourth-quarter interception that was returned for a touchdown. It marked the first time that Virginia had lost to an FCS team since 1986, which was the last time they lost to William and Mary.

It also marked the first time since Appalachian State defeated Michigan that an FCS school defeated a team from a conference that has a guaranteed spot in a BCS bowl game.

Keys to the Game:

TCU is obviously favored in this matchup, but they can't afford to be complacent. While a win over Virginia would seem routine, a loss would be devastating, not only to TCU's young season, but to the Mountain West Conference as a whole.

Virginia has to take care of the ball and try to sustain long drives. Unless Virgina can wear down TCU's defense, the Cavaliers could be looking at a very long football game. With TCU's stellar run defense, and Virginia's quarterback problems, TCU could extend their current streak to three: games without allowing a touchdown.

Keep your eye on this one. The fun's just getting started.

Final: TCU 31 vs. Virginia 14

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