I respect the Virginia defense too much to believe the total will exceed 55 points on Saturday. Besides, the expectation that Joe Milton can simply replace Hendon Hooker (70% completion percentage, 27:2 TD:INT ratio) is unrealistic. The Volunteers also lost explosive WR Jalin Hyatt and top offensive tackle Darnell Wright to the pros. The Cavaliers' defense returns a lot of starting experience, including on the defensive line, which will be the strength of the unit. Chico Bennett (seven sacks) and Aaron Faumui (nine TFL) are back to wreak havoc.

The Cavaliers' offense will likely have its troubles, too. QB Brennan Armstrong transferred to NC State, the receivers are unreliable, and the ground game needs to show improvement before I would expect much out of it. The O-line struggled last season and the left side of the line will be brand new. The Vols lived in the backfield in 2022, leading the SEC in tackles for loss, and should feast on Saturday. The UT secondary should also be solid in coverage.