No. 9 Virginia opens season against Drexel as heavy favorites

No. 9 Virginia opens its season against Drexel in Charlottesville, bringing back key contributors from last year’s 30-6 team, including preseason ACC Player of the Year Thijs De Ridder and 7-foot center Johann Grunloh. The Cavaliers also added six scholarship players, including transfer guard Jurian Dixon, while coach Ryan Odom expects the returning core to help the team click quickly. Betting previews make Virginia a heavy favorite, but one recommends the under on 142.5 points, citing Drexel’s slow pace and strong defense alongside its weak offense. Drexel’s defensive returners could limit scoring, though Virginia’s size and preseason strength on both ends pose a major challenge; another preview points to Virginia’s home form and Drexel’s struggles against ranked teams.