THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Saturday, September 10, 1994 TAG: 9409100381
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: C2 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY FRANK VEHORN, STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: ANNAPOLIS, MD. LENGTH: Short : 45 lines
For a man who seems genuinely concerned about his opponent, Virginia coach George Welsh was in a generous mood this week.
Navy, where Welsh once played and coached, seemed a ship headed for the rocks after firing offensive coordinator Greg Briner in the wake of a season-opening 56-14 defeat to San Diego State.
But if the Middies had any doubts about devising an offensive plan for Virginia, Welsh kindly spelled it out for them - throw the ball. ``I expect a lot of passing,'' Welsh said. ``They are going to screen and throw the ball in the flat. That is what I'd do.''
Really, though, Welsh was not letting slip any big secrets.
The most vulnerable part of Virginia's game last week in its 41-17 loss to Florida State was a secondary that gave up almost 400 yards and four touchdowns.
And Navy's most productive offensive weapon is quarterback Jim Kubiak's arm.
``He is a classic drop-back quarterback,'' Welsh said.``I don't think he scrambles much, and he certainly is not going to run the option.
``Most of the time he is going to be back in the pocket, and they are going to send five receivers out. He is going to call 50 passes, perhaps, and we need to get to him, and get him on the ground for some losses.''
Welsh also hopes to see better consistency in his offense.
``We have to catch the ball better, and not drop it or fumble it,'' he said.
The Cavaliers have beaten Navy, 38-0 and 53-0, the last two years and are a 25-point favorite tonight.
Still, Welsh insisted that this is a big game that could be a turning point for his team's season.
``There always is one game early in the year that has a lot to do with the outcome of the season, and I think this is it,'' Welsh said.
Although Virginia has won four straight games in the series, averaging 521.5 yards and 41 points, Navy still leads the series, 27-10. by CNB