Top Cavaliers to Grace the Gridiron
The Virginia Cavaliers football program boasts a rich history and, with it, a pantheon of players who etched their names onto the annals of Charlottesville lore. Here's a glimpse at some of the most illustrious gridiron heroes:
Offensive Stalwarts:
-Shawn Moore (QB, 1989-92): The "Virginia Cannon" led the Cavaliers to their only ACC title in 1990, wielding a lightning-fast arm and an uncanny ability to orchestrate comebacks. His jersey number and record single-game passing performance (527 yards) remain untouched.
-Heath Miller (TE, 2003-04): This pass-catching tight end rewrote the receiving record books for his position, becoming a first-round NFL draft pick and earning a Pro Bowl nod. His athleticism and sure hands terrorized defenses, making him a Cavaliers legend.
-Thomas Jones (RB, 1997-99): Nicknamed "The Human Battering Ram," Jones is the program's all-time leading rusher, amassing over 4,000 yards and 39 touchdowns in just three seasons. His punishing running style and explosive bursts left defenders in his wake.
Defensive Dynamos:
-Joe Palumbo (DT, 1948-50): A two-time All-American and member of the College Football Hall of Fame, Palumbo anchored some of the best Cavalier defenses ever, earning All-ACC honors and setting a school record for career tackles.
-Chris Long (DE, 2006-07): Long's relentless pass rush terrorized quarterbacks, culminating in consecutive ACC Defensive Player of the Year awards. His 24 career sacks rank second in program history, and his jersey number hangs proudly in the rafters.
-Ahmad Hawkins (DB, 1997-2000): This electrifying ball hawk holds the Cavalier record for career interceptions (18), returning three for touchdowns. He earned All-America honors and showcased dazzling instincts and athleticism, making him a fan favorite.
These are just a few of the many Cavaliers who have left their mark on the program. From offensive maestros to defensive stalwarts, they represent the legacy of Virginia football, reminding us of the grit, talent, and passion that define Cavaliers on the gridiron.
Offensive Stalwarts:
-Shawn Moore (QB, 1989-92): The "Virginia Cannon" led the Cavaliers to their only ACC title in 1990, wielding a lightning-fast arm and an uncanny ability to orchestrate comebacks. His jersey number and record single-game passing performance (527 yards) remain untouched.
-Heath Miller (TE, 2003-04): This pass-catching tight end rewrote the receiving record books for his position, becoming a first-round NFL draft pick and earning a Pro Bowl nod. His athleticism and sure hands terrorized defenses, making him a Cavaliers legend.
-Thomas Jones (RB, 1997-99): Nicknamed "The Human Battering Ram," Jones is the program's all-time leading rusher, amassing over 4,000 yards and 39 touchdowns in just three seasons. His punishing running style and explosive bursts left defenders in his wake.
Defensive Dynamos:
-Joe Palumbo (DT, 1948-50): A two-time All-American and member of the College Football Hall of Fame, Palumbo anchored some of the best Cavalier defenses ever, earning All-ACC honors and setting a school record for career tackles.
-Chris Long (DE, 2006-07): Long's relentless pass rush terrorized quarterbacks, culminating in consecutive ACC Defensive Player of the Year awards. His 24 career sacks rank second in program history, and his jersey number hangs proudly in the rafters.
-Ahmad Hawkins (DB, 1997-2000): This electrifying ball hawk holds the Cavalier record for career interceptions (18), returning three for touchdowns. He earned All-America honors and showcased dazzling instincts and athleticism, making him a fan favorite.
These are just a few of the many Cavaliers who have left their mark on the program. From offensive maestros to defensive stalwarts, they represent the legacy of Virginia football, reminding us of the grit, talent, and passion that define Cavaliers on the gridiron.
