Three major storylines for Virginia vs NC State

College football has finally arrived, and the Cavaliers are set for a high-stakes showdown

Sep 6, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Virginia Cavaliers warm up before the game against NC State Wolfpack at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jaylynn Nash-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Saturday afternoon, Virginia and NC State will fight for first place in the ACC to start the 2026 season. Here are three key storylines to follow during the opening contest at Scott Stadium.

A simple yet crucial question — what will this football team look like?

While Virginia does have some notable continuity, there is an equal helping of new additions. The world is going to get a first look at Beau Pribula in Cavaliers orange under center, plus a whole new set of starting receivers and a new running back duo. There will also be a new star safety, some new cornerbacks and more. 

One game will not define this team — but first impressions count for something, at least in the conference standings. Fans will want to see a strong debut for a team that enters 2026 with a newfound halo of hype, excitement and hope. There should be a sizable crowd in Charlottesville to watch this 2026 team take the field.

Can Virginia control the game?

In last season’s game, neither team scored in the fourth quarter. The only scoring in the second half came from a single touchdown by Virginia and three by NC State — all in the third quarter. The Cavaliers will need to control the flow of the game, which requires some late-game scores as well as consistent defense.

The Wolfpack dropped big play after big play on Virginia’s defense last year. NC State scored two touchdowns from outside the redzone, and two more came from outside the 10-yard line. This was without Kam Robinson on the field — he may be able to play, which would certainly help the home team.

Even more relevant than explosive plays, though, is rushing defense. The Wolfpack averaged 6.2 yards per carry. An effective run game drains the clock and keeps an opponent’s offense off the field. The Cavaliers will need to mitigate that rushing attack.

Pressure, pressure, pressure

This storyline is multifaceted. In one sense, Virginia will need to literally generate pressure on quarterback CJ Bailey to earn a win. In another, how will the Cavaliers respond to the pressure of an ACC opener against a talented opponent? Then there is a third type of pressure, which is in-game situations.

Virginia excelled on third down last year, both offensively and defensively. Is that sustainable? The answer will soon be revealed. Offensive coordinator Des Kitchings said that his response is to “get into third downs less often,” and take some pressure off of his offense. Conversely, the Cavaliers will hope to drop a mountain of pressure on their guest with a raucous home crowd.