The Virginia Cavaliers have made a significant mark in college football by securing the No. 14 spot in the inaugural College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings of the season, released on November 4. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time the Cavaliers have been included in the CFP rankings since 2019 and only the fourth occasion in the program”s history.
Previously, Virginia was ranked No. 25 in the initial 2018 poll and held positions No. 23 and No. 24 during the 2019 season. With an impressive overall record of 8-1, the Cavaliers are experiencing their best start in 35 years. Additionally, they stand out as the only unbeaten team in ACC conference play, having achieved five consecutive victories to open their league action, marking a first for the program.
Virginia enters Week 11 on a seven-game winning streak, which includes three overtime wins, tying the longest winning streak in the school”s history. The top three positions in the current rankings are occupied by Ohio State, Indiana, and Texas A&M. Notably, Notre Dame is the only other team from the ACC to feature in the Top 10 this week. Since this is only the first round of the CFP rankings, there remains ample opportunity for teams to shift positions in the weeks to come.
UVA head coach Tony Elliott has maintained an optimistic outlook for his program throughout the season. He recognizes the potential and raw talent within his team, emphasizing their ability to find ways to win games despite challenges such as injuries. Elliott expressed his pride in the players” growth and development, stating, “I think the thing I”m most proud of is that they just found a way to win football games, right? Despite who they”re playing, despite the injury situation, they just found ways to win football games.” He noted that the team”s focus and humility have contributed significantly to their success this year.
Looking ahead, UVA”s matchup against Wake Forest is on the horizon, with the kickoff scheduled for November 8 at 7 PM EST. The result of this game will be crucial in determining Virginia”s position in the next round of the CFP rankings. While Elliott is cautious about overly fixating on the rankings, the fan base can take encouragement from the Cavaliers” impressive recognition in the college football landscape.
