University of Virginia football offensive coordinator Des Kitchings and defensive coordinator John Rudzinski addressed the media last week, their first appearances since being hired by new Cavalier head coach Tony Elliott. With spring practice on the horizon, what are some of the takeaways from last week’s press conferences?

Offense Takeaway: Running Backs Will Play A Larger Role

UVA was third among all FBS schools and second among all Power 5 programs in total offense in the 2021 season. Led by a prolific passing attack featuring record-breaking signal caller Brennan Armstrong and a gifted group of receivers, the Hoos averaged 515.8 yards per game, including 392.6 yards per contest through the air. Armstrong and the top three receivers from last season – Dontayvion Wicks, Keytaon Thompson and Billy Kemp IV – return in 2022. Wide receiver Lavel Davis Jr. returns from injury too.

Virginia offensive coordinator Des Kitchings wants to be able to run the football and is optimistic he has some playmakers, including rising redshirt junior Mike Hollins, at the running back position. Kitchings, who has extensive experience coaching running backs, looks forward to watching Hollins and company this spring. ~ ~ Photo by Kris Wright/TheSabre.com