3 players, 2 fixtures and 1 prediction for UVA Football vs Richmond

We did it. The dog days of the offseason are over and it's finally time for the game preview. The Virginia Cavaliers host Richmond to kick off the 2024 football season.

Against an FCS opponent, even one ranked in the top 15, it's important to see UVA do things well in the third (!) year of the Tony Elliott era. Many people consider this a barely noticeable upset, but it's easier to believe that Vegas' 19.5-point margin is more accurate.

Ultimately, the focus will not be so much on getting to 50, but rather avoiding penalties and mistakes, moving the ball consistently and staying solid on defense. Needless to say, not all circumstances in which Virginia wins are equal as far as its outlook for the rest of the season is concerned.

Richmond last traveled to Charlottesville in 2022, where the Cavaliers defeated the Spiders in a 34-17 victory. Virginia has a 10-1 overall record against its in-state FCS opponent, although that win still stings.

Time: Saturday, August 31, 6:00 p.m. EST

Regard: ACCNX or ESPN+

Three players to keep an eye on

WR Nick DeGennaro

The former Maryland Terrapin is by far the best offensive player the Spiders have to offer. In two seasons at Richmond, DeGennaro has amassed 1,426 yards and 12 touchdowns and was named to the All-CAA second team in 2023.

Despite the somewhat questionable quarterback situation, offensive coordinator Winston October will try to throw the ball to DeGennaro as often as possible. He makes his money primarily off of quick hitters, can catch balls in tight, contested areas, and will certainly outdo you with the odd spectacular play. DeGennaro also returns punts and can be dangerous in that regard.

Regardless of the outcome, DeGennaro will try to prove his skills to NFL scouts against by far the most prominent opponent this season.

LB Carter Glassmyer

Glassmyer comes from Saint Francis (PA) after an incredible first season in college football, where he was named an FCS Freshman All-American. The Pennsylvania native is a fielder who can do a little bit of everything.

His most notable skill, however, is his dominance in the run game, which is a big reason he led the conference in tackles. Glassmyer stood out against FBS Western Michigan last season, and #10 should be ready for an even bigger challenge to begin 2024.

DL Matei Fitz

Last year, Richmond's identity was their defensive front. With top sack takers Marlem Louis and Zander Barnett leaving, Fitz is expected to anchor the interior of the defensive line. He used his playing time efficiently last year, collecting 34 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. He is expected to expand on his breakout performance even further in 2024.

Two duels

Virginia OL vs Richmond Defensive Front

As mentioned, Richmond is relatively strong defensively. Still, this is a matchup where the 'Hoos will have to impose their will. It's a crucial season for Virginia's offensive line, which struggled last year but started to pull itself together in the home stretch.

Chemistry shouldn't be an issue with eight rotation players returning, so they should start 2024 on the right foot. We'll especially be watching the battle between Rimington Watch List center Brian Stevens and Matei Fitz on the interior and Jeremiah Grant on the perimeter.

Richmond's running game against Virginia's defense

For an FCS team not exactly known for its explosive offense, the game plan is fairly predictable. The Spiders will look to move the ball on the ground, run the clock, and shorten the number of possessions in the game.

Keep in mind that Richmond acquired Zach Palmer-Smith from Wagner this offseason, who will improve the offense as a big-play threat. However, redshirt freshman Jamaal Brown, who is more of a consistent chain player, could lead the team in runs. Overall, Richmond's running back room is extremely young and will start as a committee of up to four guys.

Virginia was exploited on the ground last year, allowing 184.5 rushing yards per game, good for 117th in the FBS. Ideally, the Cavaliers can get that down to a more respectable, middling number, and that's where it starts.

A prediction

Virginia will control the game and score a 50-yard touchdown or two with a newly formed group of offensive playmakers. Richmond will strike early but stall quickly, getting only a couple of field goals from two-time All-Patriot League kicker Brandon Peskin (Fordham).

UVA fans are happy with the result, but look back at the long road that still lies ahead of them before they can make it to the bowl.

Prediction: Hoos 38, Spiders 13