CHARLOTTESVILLE—At times last Saturday, Virginia’s cornerbacks felt like they weren’t even playing the game. Chris Cook and Ras-I Dowling anchor the ACC’s best pass defense, and Georgia Tech didn’t have any interest in trying to throw on them—there were just eight passes attempted all game. “Those guys are always saying they wish they had more action,“ coach Al Groh said. “Well, they’re going to get their wish.“

Three keys for Virginia 1Replace Chris Cook. If the cornerback can’t go, which seems likely, it will be up to Chase Minnifield to fill his role in the secondary. It’s a position where one key play can change the outcome of the game, making Minnifield’s role that much more important. He’ll play opposite Ras-I Dowling, who struggled at the start of the season but came closer to his all-conference form against Southern Miss. 2Special teams can’t allow points. Special teams play has cost Virginia on the scoreboard, and two weeks ago it became a disaster when the group allowed two big kickoff returns as part of the Golden Eagles’ comeback. The unit was much-hyped in the preseason under first-year coordinator Ron Prince. It needs to quit worrying about making game-changing plays and instead focus on not allowing them the other way. 3Continued receiver growth. Virginia’s young wide receivers struggled early in the season, but have started to show flashes of their potential. The group is loaded with speed, but it remains to be seen whether it can convert its raw tools into playmaking ability. A couple of drive-extending catches would boost the offense and give the defense time to regroup.

To most on the outside, including a host of former players, it seemed rather unique. Virginia’s football team rolled through the summer months without a single captain to lead workout sessions. According to those in training camp, that designation was not needed for a group longing to take the program to just its second bowl game in four seasons.

CHARLOTTESVILLE It really is a numbers game. Or so says cornerback Chris Cook. Back for a second chance at Virginia, the cornerback has ditched No. 26 for the chance to don No. 2. Cook, with luggage in tow, walked to the team bus prior to the departure for the Gator Bowl only to be told that he could not travel with the group.

CHARLOTTESVILLE Facing a year’s suspension from the University of Virginia, Chris Cook considered early entry into the NFL draft. His mother and grandfather told Cook they’d support him in whatever he did, and he went so far as to sign the necessary papers. Cook never submitted his paperwork, however, and for that U.Va. football fans can be grateful. The 6-2, 204-pound cornerback from Lynchburg was re-admitted to school in January, and he’s probably as talented as any player in the Cavaliers’ secondary. Cook has been working with the second team this spring, but he may not stay there long.