Certainly, there have been many factors in Virginia’s reversal of fortunes on the football field over the past month: a quarterback who gets it, a tough-minded defense, the return of Cedric Peerman and Kevin Ogletree’s ability to stretch opposing defenses, just to name a few. One that is often overlooked is the steady improvement of the offensive line.

When Virginia took the field for its first offensive possession, sophomore Pete Lalich entered the huddle and collected the first snap from center Jack Shields.

Last year was a good time to be Dave Borbely, in his second season as Virginia’s offensive line coach. From stem to stern, he had veteran linemen at every spot, including first-round NFL draft choice Branden Albert at guard. That was last year.

Barker, a junior, joins senior left guard Eugene Monroe as the lone returning starters on one of the units in question heading into the new season. Former incumbents Branden Albert and Ian-Yates Cunningham, both guards, and center Jordy Lipsey must be replaced on assistant coach Dave Borbely’s offensive line.