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The Virginia Cavaliers know who their quarterback will be for the 2024 season.
On Saturday, the team announced that sophomore Anthony Colandrea has won the QB competition and will be the starter. Colandrea had been in a heated battle with graduate transfer Tony Muskett.
— Virginia Cavaliers (@VirginiaSports) August 24, 2024
Muskett began the 2023 season as the starter, but suffered an injury and was replaced by Colandrea. It was Colandrea got the bulk of the snaps in 2023 and finished with 1,958 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. He also added 225 rushing yards. Colandrea ranked ninth in the ACC in passing yards and passing touchdowns. He threw a touchdown pass in seven of his eight games he played.
The sophomore is more of a threat with his legs than Muskett, which may have played a role in the team’s decision. In 2023, Muskett ended with 1,031 passing yards, 6 TDs, and 5 INTs, and added just 66 yards on the ground.
Colandrea was originally a 3-star prospect out of Florida. The QB was heavily recruited by South Florida, Arkansas State, and others before deciding on the Cavaliers. With the young QB firmly on top of the depth chart now, it will be interesting to see if he can deliver on his promise in 2024.
The Cavaliers are hoping to improve on a disappointing 3-9 record from last season. The team will open up their season against the FCS Richmond Spiders on August 31.
Bryce Lazenby covers college football for Saturday Down South. A Nashville native, his previous stops include FanSided, Dimers, and The Leaf-Chronicle.
