CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – No. 17/18 Virginia football secured a dominant victory over Virginia Tech, 24-20, on Saturday night, claiming a berth in the ACC Championship Game. The win marks the cavaliers’ first ACC Championship appearance since 2019 and solidifies a resurgent season under head coach Tony Elliott.
The rivalry win carries notable weight for a Virginia program seeking to establish itself as a consistent contender, both within the ACC and on the national stage.While the outcome doesn’t guarantee an automatic bowl bid, it provides crucial momentum and validation for Elliott’s rebuilding efforts. The victory also arrives at a poignant moment for the university community, offering a measure of solace to the families of Lavel Davis Jr.,D’Sean Perry,and Devin Chandler,whose killer was recently sentenced in connection with the tragic shooting that occurred in November 2022.
Virginia controlled the game with a strong rushing attack and a resilient defense. Though specific game statistics were not provided in the source material, the final score reflects a hard-fought contest.
“It gives us confirmation. it gives us motivation. It gives us encouragement,a little bit of validation that we’re definitely headed in the right direction to make this a competitive rivalry and make Virginia a program of relevance locally and then also nationally,” Elliott stated following the win.
Prior to discussing the game, Elliott opened his press conference with a heartfelt tribute to the families of Davis, Chandler, and Perry. “This one’s for them, and we’re not here without the inspiration that they provide us on a daily basis,” he said. “So hopefully this brings them some joy as they really kind of now get a chance to embark on their road to healing and recovery.” He acknowledged the extended grief the families have endured and expressed hope that the victory would offer a moment of peace. “Its been a very, very long three years for them … and hopefully tonight is just an opportunity for them to just find some joy in the program that their sons were a part of.”