30 Facts About Virginia Cavaliers Football

The Early Years

Virginia Cavaliers football has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Here are some fascinating facts about the early years of the team.

1. The Virginia Cavaliers football team was established in 1888, making it one of the oldest college football programs in the United States.
2. The team's first game was played on November 13, 1888, against Pantops Academy, which they won 26-0.
3. In the early years, the team was known as the "Virginia Orange and Blue" before adopting the Cavaliers nickname.
4. The Cavaliers played their home games at Madison Hall Field until 1901, when they moved to Lambeth Field.
5. The team achieved its first undefeated season in 1895, finishing with a record of 8-0.

Memorable Coaches

Coaches have played a significant role in shaping the Virginia Cavaliers football program. Here are some notable coaches and their contributions.

6. Earle "Greasy" Neale, who coached the team from 1923 to 1928, later became a Pro Football Hall of Fame coach.
7. Frank Murray, head coach from 1937 to 1945, led the team to its first bowl game appearance in the 1941 Orange Bowl.
8. Art Guepe, who coached from 1946 to 1952, guided the team to a 7-2 record in 1949, earning them a spot in the top 20 rankings.
9. George Welsh, head coach from 1982 to 2000, is the winningest coach in Virginia football history with 134 victories.
10. Al Groh, who coached from 2001 to 2009, led the team to an ACC Coastal Division title in 2007.

Historic Games

Certain games have left an indelible mark on the history of Virginia Cavaliers football. Here are some of the most memorable ones.

11. The 1990 game against Clemson, where Virginia secured its first-ever victory over the Tigers after 29 consecutive losses.
12. In 1995, the Cavaliers defeated Florida State 33-28, handing the Seminoles their first-ever ACC loss.
13. The 2002 Continental Tire Bowl saw Virginia defeat West Virginia 48-22, marking their first bowl victory since 1995.
14. The 2011 Chick-fil-A Bowl, where Virginia faced Auburn, was their first bowl game appearance in four years.
15. In 2019, the Cavaliers won the Commonwealth Cup against Virginia Tech for the first time since 2003, securing a spot in the ACC Championship Game.

Record-Breaking Players

Virginia Cavaliers football has seen numerous players who have set records and achieved great success. Here are some of the standout athletes.

16. Bill Dudley, who played from 1939 to 1941, was the first Cavalier to be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
17. Shawn Moore, quarterback from 1987 to 1990, set multiple school records, including most career touchdown passes (55).
18. Thomas Jones, who played from 1996 to 1999, is the all-time leading rusher in Virginia history with 4,480 yards.
19. Chris Long, defensive end from 2004 to 2007, was a unanimous All-American and won the Ted Hendricks Award in 2007.
20. Bryce Perkins, quarterback from 2018 to 2019, set the single-season total offense record with 4,307 yards in 2019.

Stadium and Traditions

The home of the Virginia Cavaliers football team and the traditions that make game day special are integral to the program's identity.

21. Scott Stadium, the team's current home, opened in 1931 and has a seating capacity of over 61,000.
22. The Cavalier Marching Band, established in 2004, performs at all home games and adds to the vibrant game day atmosphere.
23. The "Good Old Song," sung to the tune of "Auld Lang Syne," is a beloved tradition where fans link arms and sway while singing.
24. The Cavalier mascot, known as "CavMan," leads the team onto the field riding a horse, adding a unique flair to the entrance.
25. The "Sabre Walk," where players walk through a sea of cheering fans before entering the stadium, has become a cherished pre-game ritual.

Recent Successes

In recent years, the Virginia Cavaliers football team has achieved significant milestones and enjoyed notable successes.

26. In 2018, the Cavaliers won the Belk Bowl, defeating South Carolina 28-0 for their first bowl victory since 2005.
27. The 2019 season saw Virginia win the ACC Coastal Division title for the first time in program history.
28. The Cavaliers made their first appearance in the Orange Bowl in 2019, facing the Florida Gators.
29. Bryce Hall, a standout cornerback, was named a first-team All-American in 2019.
30. The team's 2020 victory over North Carolina marked their fourth consecutive win against the Tar Heels, a first in program history.

Virginia Cavaliers Football: A Legacy of Triumphs and Traditions

Virginia Cavaliers football boasts a rich history filled with triumphs and traditions. From their early beginnings in the 19th century to their modern-day successes, the Cavaliers have consistently demonstrated excellence on the field. The team’s commitment to both athletic and academic achievements sets them apart in college football. Memorable moments, legendary players, and passionate fans all contribute to the vibrant culture surrounding the program.

Whether it's the thrilling victories, the intense rivalries, or the dedication to community and sportsmanship, Virginia Cavaliers football continues to captivate and inspire. The program’s enduring legacy is a testament to the hard work, perseverance, and spirit of everyone involved. As the Cavaliers look to the future, their storied past serves as a foundation for continued success and innovation in the world of college football.