Virginia's Veteran Offensive Line Powers 'Big Boy Football' Win Over NC State

Virginia's offensive line, composed entirely of graduate students, anchored a 12-minute touchdown drive that sealed a dominant win over NC State. The unit, which played together for the first time in a regular-season game, earned praise from quarterback Beau Pribula for its experience and composure. The Cavaliers' run game wore down the Wolfpack defense, showcasing why the line is ranked among the nation's best.

The Cavaliers' starting five—tackles McKale Boley and Monroe Mills, guards Noah Josey and Makilan Thomas, and center Drake Metcalf—had never shared the field in a regular-season contest before Saturday. Mills and Thomas both missed the entire 2025 campaign, making their debut together particularly notable. Phil Steele had already ranked this unit tenth nationally entering the season.

Virginia's depth extends well beyond the starters. Reserves including Ben York, Jon Adair, Grant Ellinger, Ryan Brubaker, Noah Hartsoe, and Alex Payne are considered capable of starting at Power Four programs. The Cavaliers now enter a bye week before facing Norfolk State and West Virginia in non-conference play.