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    <title>Ratcliffe On for Charlottesville Daily Progress</title>
    <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/</link>
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        <title>Ratcliffe On for Charlottesville Daily Progress</title>
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    <dc:language>en</dc:language>
    <dc:creator>Charlottesville Daily Progress</dc:creator>
    <dc:rights>Copyright 2009</dc:rights>
    <dc:date>2009-11-04T00:19:15-05:00</dc:date>

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         <item>
          <title>Groh relies on youth</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/groh_relies_on_youth/48393/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Thus far, 14 true freshmen have appeared in games this season along with 11 redshirt freshmen, meaning that 39 percent of the team that has gained playing time in the first eight games have been freshmen (29 of 75).
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:01:06 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/groh_relies_on_youth/48393/#When:05:01:06Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Lack of run game dooms Virginia</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/lack_of_run_game_dooms_virginia/48337/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Over the Al Groh era at Virginia, passing statistics generally have been losing statistics.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:01:06 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/lack_of_run_game_dooms_virginia/48337/#When:04:01:06Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>A dream matchup for UVa D&#45;backs?</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_dream_matchup_for_uva_d-backs/48294/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Defensive backs dream about games like Virginia&#8217;s matchup today against visiting Duke. Well, they dream about them as long as things go their way.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 31 Oct 2009 00:01:27 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_dream_matchup_for_uva_d-backs/48294/#When:05:01:27Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>A tough road for Bennett</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_tough_road_for_bennett/48108/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
With Virginia&#8217;s men&#8217;s basketball season opener little more than two weeks away, one would think the fan base would be less than enthusiastic, considering the program is coming off its worst season since they used peach baskets and this edition of Cavaliers were picked to finish 11th in the 12-team ACC.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:01:49 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_tough_road_for_bennett/48108/#When:05:01:49Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Don&#8217;t believe all that you hear</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/dont_believe_all_that_you_hear/48069/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The next time you&#8217;re watching a football game on TV and hear one of those brilliant talking heads make the observation that, &#8220;those coaches made some great adjustments at halftime,&#8221; beware.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:01:28 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/dont_believe_all_that_you_hear/48069/#When:05:01:28Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>October magic can&#8217;t lift UVa</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/october_magic_cant_lift_uva/48002/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia&#8217;s October magic and its short-lived lead atop the ACC&#8217;s Coastal Division vanished in rain-soaked Scott Stadium on Saturday as Georgia Tech&#8217;s triple-option monster cut the Cavaliers to ribbons.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 25 Oct 2009 00:01:30 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/october_magic_cant_lift_uva/48002/#When:05:01:30Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>A battle for the Coastal perch</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_battle_for_the_coastal_perch/47978/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
In most cases, time of possession is one of the most meaningless statistics in football.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:01:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_battle_for_the_coastal_perch/47978/#When:05:01:38Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Virginia hopes curse lives on</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_hopes_curse_lives_on/47894/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Clearly an underdog to the 11th-ranked team in the nation this weekend, Virginia needs to take advantage of the opportunity.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:01:09 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_hopes_curse_lives_on/47894/#When:05:01:09Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Can Cavaliers continue streak?</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/can_cavaliers_continue_streak/47710/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Oddly, Tech hasn&#8217;t won here since in eight tries, four against George Welsh, four against Al Groh. Four Tech teams have come in ranked and lost, particularly the 1999 Yellow Jackets that were ranked No. 7 in the nation and were upset 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:01:46 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/can_cavaliers_continue_streak/47710/#When:05:01:46Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Defense gives UVa a shot at victory</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/defense_gives_uva_a_shot_at_victory/47580/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If defense really wins championships, then Virginia still has a chance to make some noise in the ACC&#8217;s Coastal Division this season.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 17 Oct 2009 00:01:12 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/defense_gives_uva_a_shot_at_victory/47580/#When:05:01:12Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Jackson ready to pitch in</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/jackson_ready_to_pitch_in/47455/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
With Mikell Simpson officially listed as doubtful (at least a 75 percent chance he will not play) for Virginia at Maryland on Saturday, the burden of toting the pigskin falls into the capable hands of big, bad Rashawn Jackson.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:01:37 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/jackson_ready_to_pitch_in/47455/#When:05:01:37Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Reflecting on a trio of football legends</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/reflecting_on_a_trio_of_football_legends/47394/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Hard to believe it has been nearly a decade since George Welsh graced the sidelines at Scott Stadium.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:01:07 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/reflecting_on_a_trio_of_football_legends/47394/#When:05:01:07Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Veterans give UVa a boost</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/veterans_give_uva_a_boost/47352/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Before the Cavaliers took the field at North Carolina, things changed in the pre-game locker room and only intensified prior to UVa&#8217;s homecoming game against Indiana last Saturday. While it would be premature to credit the rowdiness that fired up the players for back-to-back wins, the new attitude certainly didn&#8217;t hurt.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:01:52 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/veterans_give_uva_a_boost/47352/#When:05:01:52Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Virginia pounds IU on the ground</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_pounds_iu_on_the_ground/47207/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There&#8217;s absolutely no truth to the rumor that Craig Littlepage filed an application for Virginia to become members of the Big Ten late Saturday night.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 11 Oct 2009 00:01:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_pounds_iu_on_the_ground/47207/#When:05:01:11Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Honoring a Virginia legend</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/honoring_a_virginia_legend1/47176/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Fourteen years later, random Virginia fans still approach Anthony Poindexter on the street, in the grocery store, in restaurants and ask about one play in his illustrious football career.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 10 Oct 2009 00:01:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/honoring_a_virginia_legend1/47176/#When:05:01:57Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>UNC win a turning point for Virginia?</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/unc_win_a_turning_point_for_virginia/47042/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Yes, it might sound a little corny, but old-school Al Groh sat in the interview room at Carolina&#8217;s Kenan Stadium last Saturday and talked endlessly about how proud and appreciative he was of the efforts by his players in upsetting the Tar Heels in Chapel Hill.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:01:22 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/unc_win_a_turning_point_for_virginia/47042/#When:05:01:22Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Virginia shows its grit</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_shows_its_grit/46770/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Virginia coach had noticed something at times during the first three weeks of the season and just couldn&#8217;t take it any longer. This football team had to get tougher.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:01:42 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_shows_its_grit/46770/#When:05:01:42Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>UVa win is worth the wait</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/uva_win_is_worth_the_wait/46676/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
They call it the South&#8217;s Oldest Rivalry &#8212; 114 meetings in the border war between Virginia and North Carolina, predating the leatherheads of gridirons past.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 04 Oct 2009 00:01:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/uva_win_is_worth_the_wait/46676/#When:05:01:11Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Offensive output gives UVa new hope</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/offensive_output_gives_uva_new_hope/46648/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
At last glance, Virginia&#8217;s offense exited Hattiesburg, Miss., with its self-respect intact for the first time this season.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 03 Oct 2009 00:01:16 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/offensive_output_gives_uva_new_hope/46648/#When:05:01:16Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>No better time for a win</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/no_better_time_for_a_win/46420/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia desperately needs to win a football game after a rocky 0-3 start and there&#8217;s no better time to start than Saturday in Chapel Hill. Groh has a 6-2 record against the Tar Heels and a win over longtime rival UNC could give the Cavaliers new life with a 1-0 record in the ACC.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:01:49 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/no_better_time_for_a_win/46420/#When:05:01:49Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>The Bear&#8217;s lesson: Nice costs nuthin&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/the_bears_lesson_nice_costs_nuthin/46332/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A great friend of mine, Bill Millsaps, the retired sports editor and columnist of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and my writing idol while growing up in the business, sent me a terrific story the other day about one of my other idols, Alabama football coach Paul &#8220;Bear&#8221; Bryant.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:01:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/the_bears_lesson_nice_costs_nuthin/46332/#When:05:01:01Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Will changes pay off for Cavs?</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/will_changes_pay_off_for_cavs/46211/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
While much of the gridiron world is down on UVa&#8217;s immediate future, the players and coaching staff travel across the state border knowing that a win against the Tar Heels will make the Cavaliers 1-0 in the ACC, which would most likely put them only one back of Virginia Tech in the Coastal Division.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:01:56 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/will_changes_pay_off_for_cavs/46211/#When:05:01:56Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Offensive switch not enough for UVa</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/offensive_switch_not_enough_for_uva/45707/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Al Groh&#8217;s offense was broken and he did his best to fix it.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 20 Sep 2009 00:01:24 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/offensive_switch_not_enough_for_uva/45707/#When:05:01:24Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Is change in store for Cavs?</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/is_change_in_store_for_cavs/45676/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
After covering Al Groh&#8217;s football teams for eight-plus seasons, there&#8217;s one thing I&#8217;ve learned about the guy.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 19 Sep 2009 00:01:48 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/is_change_in_store_for_cavs/45676/#When:05:01:48Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavaliers must run the ball to win</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_must_run_the_ball_to_win/45589/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
After a horrible start, an injured starting quarterback, an offensive line that hasn&#8217;t been able to adjust to the new spread offense, and heaps of criticism, this columnist believes there&#8217;s one thing that has to change for Virginia&#8217;s football team to win on Saturday at Southern Miss.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:01:24 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_must_run_the_ball_to_win/45589/#When:05:01:24Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Has Groh used up nine lives?</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/has_groh_used_up_nine_lives/45367/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Certainly in his nine years at UVa, Groh has used up some of his nine lives.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:01:26 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/has_groh_used_up_nine_lives/45367/#When:05:01:26Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Virginia&#8217;s problems start in trenches</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginias_problems_start_in_trenches/45297/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Two weeks and two lopsided losses into the new season, Virginia fans are looking around wondering what is wrong with their football team.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 13 Sep 2009 00:01:54 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginias_problems_start_in_trenches/45297/#When:05:01:54Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Have we seen the real Virginia?</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/have_we_seen_the_real_virginia/45089/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
TCU coach Gary Patterson is convinced he&#8217;ll face a different UVa team this Saturday when his Horned Frogs trek eastward to open their season at Scott Stadium.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:01:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/have_we_seen_the_real_virginia/45089/#When:05:01:02Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavs need to correct mistakes</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavs_need_to_correct_mistakes/45023/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Al Groh may need to put together the best coaching job of his career to get this edition of the Cavaliers back on track, while staring down the barrel at one of the toughest schedules in the country.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:01:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavs_need_to_correct_mistakes/45023/#When:05:01:57Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>A poor debut for the spread</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_poor_debut_for_the_spread/45006/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia&#8217;s new spread offense laid an egg large enough to cover the Commonwealth in omelet Saturday night in a mistake-riddled, 26-14 home loss to William &amp; Mary.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 06 Sep 2009 00:01:31 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_poor_debut_for_the_spread/45006/#When:05:01:31Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Prince aims for special impact</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/prince_aims_for_special_impact/44984/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When Ron Prince left his cozy job as Virginia&#8217;s offensive coordinator to become head football coach at Kansas State in the wild and wooly Big 12 Conference in 2006, he searched his soul to determine how he could most contribute to the Wildcats&#8217; program.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 05 Sep 2009 00:01:43 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/prince_aims_for_special_impact/44984/#When:05:01:43Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Walking tall: Size doesn&#8217;t slow UVa&#8217;s Vic Hall</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/news/local/article/walking_tall_size_doesnt_slow_uvas_vic_hall/44710/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Hall, who graduated from the University of Virginia in May with a degree in anthropology, will complete a dream this coming weekend when he lines up as quarterback for the Cavaliers in their season-opener against William &amp; Mary.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 04 Sep 2009 15:18:29 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/news/local/article/walking_tall_size_doesnt_slow_uvas_vic_hall/44710/#When:20:18:29Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>A 3&#45;point plan for Cavalier success</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_3-point_plan_for_cavalier_success/44866/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A few weeks ago, we penned a column about one of Al Groh&#8217;s coaching philosophies concerning the three things that a team must have to enhance its chances of winning: good quarterback play, a solid defense and a reliable kicker.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:01:39 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_3-point_plan_for_cavalier_success/44866/#When:05:01:39Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Healthy Clark ready for his chance</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/healthy_clark_ready_for_his_chance/44382/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Aaron Clark&#8217;s knee suffered heavy, season-ending damage. The ACL, the MCL, and the meniscus were all torn. His season, maybe even his career, was gone.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 23 Aug 2009 00:01:41 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/healthy_clark_ready_for_his_chance/44382/#When:05:01:41Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>&#8216;Dex&#8217; is where he belongs</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/dex_is_where_he_belongs/44323/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When Al Groh reshuffled his Virginia coaching staff, his decision to move running backs coach Anthony Poindexter to the other side of the football was hailed by the program&#8217;s faithful.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:01:41 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/dex_is_where_he_belongs/44323/#When:05:01:41Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Hall has mindset to lead Cavaliers</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/hall_has_mindset_to_lead_cavaliers/44185/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The most frequent question I&#8217;ve heard as I have traveled around the state this summer &#8212; particularly when I&#8217;m home in Central Virginia &#8212; has been, &#8220;So, who&#8217;s going to start at quarterback?&#8221;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:01:29 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/hall_has_mindset_to_lead_cavaliers/44185/#When:05:01:29Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Wanted:&amp;nbsp; Reliable kicker</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/wanted_reliable_kicker/43907/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia coach Al Groh looks around and pines for the days that Connor Hughes&#8217; spikes graced his practice field.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:01:10 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/wanted_reliable_kicker/43907/#When:05:01:10Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavs seek big&#45;play wideouts</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavs_seek_big-play_wideouts/43669/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
One of the key elements that help a spread offense become effective is a corps of wide receivers that can make something happen after the catch, or as Gregg Brandon said last December, &#8220;turn six yards into 60.&#8221;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2009 00:01:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavs_seek_big-play_wideouts/43669/#When:05:01:38Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavs can be optimistic about &#8216;09</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavs_can_be_optimistic_about_09/43437/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia coach Al Groh comes from a coaching tree that believes that while it takes more than three things to have a really good football team, there are three certain things a coach has to have above all else: good quarterback play; a good kicker; and a good defense.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:01:50 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavs_can_be_optimistic_about_09/43437/#When:05:01:50Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavaliers hope to silence critics</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_hope_to_silence_critics/43247/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
 Virginia&#8217;s Al Groh spent a portion of his media time dodging bullets during Monday&#8217;s ACC football kickoff session.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:01:36 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_hope_to_silence_critics/43247/#When:05:01:36Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>The man on fans&#8217; minds</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/the_man_on_fans_minds/43222/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Vic Hall showed up at the ACC football kickoff on Sunday and was immediately smothered by inquiring minds that wanted to know if he would be Virginia&#8217;s starting quarterback come Sept. 5.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:01:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/the_man_on_fans_minds/43222/#When:05:01:38Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Dealing with the economic downturn</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/dealing_with_the_economic_downturn/43120/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When Craig Littlepage was promoted to Virginia&#8217;s director of athletics in 2001, his charge was to build a consistently performing top 10 athletic program.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:01:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/dealing_with_the_economic_downturn/43120/#When:05:01:11Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Bidding farewell to a true original</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/bidding_farewell_to_a_true_original/42953/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We should all be so fortunate to be remembered in the manner that Michael Colley was on Friday at John Paul Jones Arena.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 19 Jul 2009 00:01:19 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/bidding_farewell_to_a_true_original/42953/#When:05:01:19Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Playing hoops to save lives</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/playing_hoops_to_save_lives/42277/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Ben D&#8217;Alessandro, whom many of you know from his basketball background, will literally get the ball rolling on this project when his BD Basketball School hosts the National Marrow Donor Program&#8217;s Basketball Marrowthon fundraiser at The Dell on Emmet Street.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:01:36 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/playing_hoops_to_save_lives/42277/#When:05:01:36Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Hall glad to have ball back</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/hall_glad_to_have_ball_back/42226/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
With a very strong shot at being Virginia&#8217;s starting quarterback, Vic Hall wants to be as prepared as he possibly can for the task. He&#8217;s in a three-way battle with more experienced QBs, Jameel Sewell and Marc Verica, so he has to be at the top of his game.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:01:45 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/hall_glad_to_have_ball_back/42226/#When:05:01:45Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Another payday for Georgia Tech alum</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/another_payday_for_georgia_tech_alum/42166/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Saturday&#8217;s payday was a little larger as Roberto Castro graduated his play and his check in winning the eGolf Tour&#8217;s $300,000 Spring Creek Championship at the course near Zion Crossroads.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/another_payday_for_georgia_tech_alum/42166/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Manhattan gives Laue his chance</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/manhattan_gives_laue_his_chance/42115/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Scattershooting the sports world while reporting that Fork Union Military Academy&#8217;s Kevin Laue will be playing Division I basketball next season ...
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:01:56 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/manhattan_gives_laue_his_chance/42115/#When:05:01:56Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>A man forged by FUMA</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_man_forged_by_fuma/41773/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Shammond Williams supplied Fork Union Military Academy with the best promotional material that the school could ever wish for during his acceptance speech into its Sports Hall of Fame on Thursday night.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2009 00:01:28 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_man_forged_by_fuma/41773/#When:05:01:28Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>UVa has no worry in Prince dealings</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/uva_has_no_worry_in_prince_dealings/41670/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The scenario out in Manhattan, Kan., which seems more akin to an Abbott &amp; Costello routine &#8212; or, better, a Three Stooges episode &#8212; won&#8217;t have any impact on Virginia&#8217;s football program.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:04:19 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/uva_has_no_worry_in_prince_dealings/41670/#When:05:04:19Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>O&#8217;Connor gets his trip home</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/oconnor_gets_his_trip_home/41375/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A Hollywood screenwriter would love to get his hands on this one.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2009 22:53:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/oconnor_gets_his_trip_home/41375/#When:03:53:38Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Virginia picks up new QB</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_picks_up/41278/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When Virginia coach Al Groh analyzed film of quarterback prospect Tyler Brosius, the first thing that came to mind was Ben Roethlisberger.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:01:15 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_picks_up/41278/#When:05:01:15Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Hard work pays off for Cavs</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/hard_work_pays_off_for_cavs/41123/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
While Virginia has been in a quiet fundraising campaign to improve its baseball facilities, the Cavaliers&#8217; team is making plenty of noise in the NCAA tournament.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:01:50 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/hard_work_pays_off_for_cavs/41123/#When:05:01:50Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavaliers enjoying road trip</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_enjoying_road_trip/41029/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
What a ride Virginia&#8217;s baseball team is enjoying as the Cavaliers open play in the NCAA Super Regionals on Friday at Ole Miss.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:01:09 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_enjoying_road_trip/41029/#When:05:01:09Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavaliers unafraid of Aztecs&#8217; ace</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_unafraid_of_aztecs_ace/40670/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The way Brian O&#8217;Connor sees it, Friday&#8217;s NCAA tournament clash against San Diego State ace Stephen Strasburg isn&#8217;t as lopsided as some observers perceive.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2009 00:01:50 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_unafraid_of_aztecs_ace/40670/#When:05:01:50Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>UVa gets short end of the stick</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/uva_gets_short_end_of_the_stick/40644/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Either way, this committee gave the shaft to the people that matter most, or at least are supposed to matter most to the NCAA, and that is their own student-athletes.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2009 00:01:18 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/uva_gets_short_end_of_the_stick/40644/#When:05:01:18Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Stories, without the West side</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/stories_without_the_west_side/40542/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Everybody has a favorite Jim West story and today&#8217;s column is dedicated to our late good friend, James O, who passed away this past week.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 24 May 2009 00:01:39 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/stories_without_the_west_side/40542/#When:05:01:39Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>The father of Central Virginia lacrosse</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/the_father_of_central_virginia_lacrosse/40511/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The old coaches will tell you after they retire that it wasn&#8217;t all about the wins and losses, but rather how they influenced others and what impact they had on their sport.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2009 00:01:14 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/the_father_of_central_virginia_lacrosse/40511/#When:05:01:14Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>&#8216;James O&#8217; left his mark on Virginia</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/james_o_left_his_mark_on_virginia/40466/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Everybody called him &#8220;James O.&#8221;            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2009 00:01:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/james_o_left_his_mark_on_virginia/40466/#When:05:01:57Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Odds and ends from around the ACC</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/odds_and_ends_from_around_the_acc/40255/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Scattershooting around the sports world over your morning coffee, which reminds me of a cartoon sent the other day by Brian Morrison from the ACC office in Greensboro ...
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2009 00:01:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/odds_and_ends_from_around_the_acc/40255/#When:05:01:53Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavaliers focused, Boland feeling age</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_focused_boland_feeling_age/40019/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Having arrived in College Station on Sunday afternoon to become acclimated to the blistering heat that accompanies the NCAA Tennis Championships at Texas A&amp;M, the only member of the Cavalier party that was worse for wear yesterday was the coach.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2009 00:01:50 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_focused_boland_feeling_age/40019/#When:05:01:50Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Starsia and company get back on track</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/starsia_and_company_get_back_on_track/39946/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Against the 16th-seeded Wildcats, Virginia seemed to have at least temporarily cured its woes.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2009 00:01:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/starsia_and_company_get_back_on_track/39946/#When:05:01:53Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Boland&#8217;s Cavs keep knocking them down</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/bolands_cavs_keep_knocking_them_down/39926/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia&#8217;s undefeated and No. 1-ranked men&#8217;s tennis team keeps running into familiar faces on its quest to bring the program its first NCAA championship.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 10 May 2009 00:01:56 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/bolands_cavs_keep_knocking_them_down/39926/#When:05:01:56Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Making up for a missed chance</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/making_up_for_a_missed_chance/39778/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When Sanam Singh&#8217;s leg muscle locked up in last year&#8217;s NCAA semifinals and the freshman couldn&#8217;t answer the bell, Virginia&#8217;s men&#8217;s tennis team was again denied the national outdoors title.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2009 00:01:44 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/making_up_for_a_missed_chance/39778/#When:05:01:44Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Bychkova glad to be winning again</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/bychkova_glad_to_be_winning_again/39602/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Nearly eight months had passed since Ekaterina Bychkova had strung together more than two wins in singles competition.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 02 May 2009 00:01:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/bychkova_glad_to_be_winning_again/39602/#When:05:01:01Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Honoring a Virginia legend</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/honoring_a_virginia_legend/39278/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As far as George Welsh was concerned, the practice field was hallowed ground, and you had darned well been ready to take care of business when you stepped upon it.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 25 Apr 2009 00:01:04 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/honoring_a_virginia_legend/39278/#When:05:01:04Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Virginia offense grows teeth</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_offense_grows_teeth/39001/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If Saturday&#8217;s spring fling was any indication, the days of Virginia&#8217;s offense being the caboose of NCAA statistical data are over.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 19 Apr 2009 00:01:55 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_offense_grows_teeth/39001/#When:05:01:55Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>UVa plays it close to the vest</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/uva_plays_it_close_to_the_vest/38616/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Don&#8217;t feel bad that Virginia&#8217;s football team is holding closed practices throughout the spring. It&#8217;s nothing personal.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 11 Apr 2009 00:01:03 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/uva_plays_it_close_to_the_vest/38616/#When:05:01:03Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>What&#8217;s the  timetable for Cavs&#8217; success?</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/whats_the_timetable_for_cavs_success/38260/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Craig Littlepage was put on the spot a few times during a short chat with sportswriters following the press conference where Tony Bennett was officially introduced as Virginia&#8217;s new basketball coach.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 05 Apr 2009 00:01:13 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/whats_the_timetable_for_cavs_success/38260/#When:05:01:13Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Questions still exist on search process</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/questions_still_exist_on_search_process/38055/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Tony Bennett era of Virginia basketball begins today with an ever-growing wave of excitement.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:01:33 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/questions_still_exist_on_search_process/38055/#When:05:01:33Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Experts give UVa decision top marks</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/experts_give_uva_decision_top_marks/38015/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia fans were looking for a home-run hire in their new basketball coach. A certified, sure-fire Hall of Famer with a resume chock-full of deeds that guaranteed a reservation in Springfield.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:01:48 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/experts_give_uva_decision_top_marks/38015/#When:05:01:48Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Recruiting will be big for Cavs&#8217; new coach</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/recruiting_will_be_big_for_cavs_new_coach/37936/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The next Virginia basketball coach &#8212; and, I still think it will be Tubby Smith &#8212; needs to be a top-notch recruiter and have a staff that can bring talent back to the program.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 29 Mar 2009 00:01:28 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/recruiting_will_be_big_for_cavs_new_coach/37936/#When:05:01:28Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Coaching carousel keeps on spinning</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/coaching_carousel_keeps_on_spinning/37902/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
After nearly two weeks of nonstop drama, I&#8217;m beginning to wonder if &#8220;March Madness&#8221; refers to the NCAA tournament or Virginia&#8217;s coaching search.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 28 Mar 2009 00:01:13 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/coaching_carousel_keeps_on_spinning/37902/#When:05:01:13Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Don&#8217;t bury Tubby as possibility for Cavs</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/dont_bury_tubby_as_possibility_for_cavs/37711/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The one thing I&#8217;ve learned about coaching searches during my career is that there&#8217;s a whole lot more misinformation circulating than information.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:01:03 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/dont_bury_tubby_as_possibility_for_cavs/37711/#When:05:01:03Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Lawson&#8217;s return lifts UNC</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/lawsons_return_lifts_unc/37604/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Never have so many been so concerned with one big toe.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 22 Mar 2009 00:01:55 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/lawsons_return_lifts_unc/37604/#When:05:01:55Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Tubby is the right pick for Virginia</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/tubby_is_the_right_pick_for_virginia/37577/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Tubby Smith, men&#8217;s basketball coach at the University of Minnesota, is a wanted man.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 21 Mar 2009 00:01:31 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/tubby_is_the_right_pick_for_virginia/37577/#When:05:01:31Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Tar Heels live up to advance billing</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/tar_heels_live_up_to_advance_billing/37533/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
During each timeout in the second half of Thursday&#8217;s first-round game of the NCAA tournament, coach Brad Greenberg kept reminding his 16th-seeded Radford University team that no matter the score, they were part of something special.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:01:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/tar_heels_live_up_to_advance_billing/37533/#When:05:01:38Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>What&#8217;s next for UVa basketball?</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/whats_next_for_uva_basketball/37354/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Instead of hitting a home run and bringing in a Hall of Famer in Tubby Smith, then at Kentucky, the UVa search committee whiffed when it settled for an unproven Dave Leitao. Clearly, the school didn&#8217;t do its homework.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:01:27 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/whats_next_for_uva_basketball/37354/#When:05:01:27Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavaliers still look for hoops relevance</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_still_look_for_hoops_relevance/37220/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When Dave Leitao came to Charlottesville four years ago he said that Virginia basketball had become &#8220;irrelevant&#8221; on the college basketball landscape.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:27:49 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_still_look_for_hoops_relevance/37220/#When:05:27:49Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Baker gets ready for familiar opposition</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/baker_gets_ready_for_familiar_opposition/37131/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Most of Virginia&#8217;s basketball team will focus on trying to upset Boston College in tonight&#8217;s opening round of the ACC Tournament. There&#8217;s more on tri-captain Calvin Baker&#8217;s mind.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:01:40 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/baker_gets_ready_for_familiar_opposition/37131/#When:05:01:40Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>A finale worthy of Hollywood</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_finale_worthy_of_hollywood/36982/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Seventy-five seconds into Saturday&#8217;s senior day game against rival Maryland, Dave Leitao spotted something that only coaches see and immediately felt good karma.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 08 Mar 2009 00:01:56 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_finale_worthy_of_hollywood/36982/#When:06:01:56Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Virginia falls apart in 2nd half</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_falls_apart_in_2nd_half/36739/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Call this one the Meltdown in Tiger Town.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:01:20 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginia_falls_apart_in_2nd_half/36739/#When:05:01:20Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Questions abound as March arrives</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/questions_abound_as_march_arrives/36642/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
March Madness &#8212; or as they say around these parts nowadays, March Sadness &#8212; arrived overnight without a whimper.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 01 Mar 2009 00:01:13 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/questions_abound_as_march_arrives/36642/#When:05:01:13Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>&#8217;Canes come up big in clutch</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/canes_come_up_big_in_clutch/36544/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
White-knuckle time &#8212; it usually brings out the very best and the very worst in teams as they try to win in the clutch.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:01:34 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/canes_come_up_big_in_clutch/36544/#When:05:01:34Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Groh&#8217;s staff comes together</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/grohs_staff_comes_together/36294/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
About a month from spring football practice, Virginia fans should be feeling pretty good about what has transpired with their coaching staff since December.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:01:07 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/grohs_staff_comes_together/36294/#When:05:01:07Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Virginia&#8217;s forgotten man puts on a show</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginias_forgotten_man_puts_on_a_show/36241/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Sportswriters aren&#8217;t supposed to pull for players they cover. We&#8217;re supposed to be unbiased, uncaring. We&#8217;re supposed to be the Switzerland of the sports world &#8212; neutral.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:01:05 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/virginias_forgotten_man_puts_on_a_show/36241/#When:05:01:05Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavaliers finally hit their stride</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_finally_hit_their_stride/36030/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
What a difference a week makes. Just ask Dave Leitao and Seth Greenberg.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:01:12 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_finally_hit_their_stride/36030/#When:05:01:12Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>A game effort, but no payoff</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_game_effort_but_no_payoff/35468/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As close as Virginia played third-ranked North Carolina in the first half on Saturday, Cavaliers&#8217; coach Dave Leitao knew there was absolutely no margin for error.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 08 Feb 2009 00:01:43 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_game_effort_but_no_payoff/35468/#When:05:01:43Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Leitao, Littlepage search for answers</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/leitao_littlepage_search_for_answers/35440/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When Virginia athletic director Craig Littlepage told Cavalier fans this week that he was committed to doing everything needed to get all of the school&#8217;s programs on track, he spoke in broad terms.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 07 Feb 2009 00:01:41 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/leitao_littlepage_search_for_answers/35440/#When:05:01:41Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>UVa staff readies for final battle</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/uva_staff_readies_for_final_battle/35206/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
On the eve of National Signing Day, Virginia&#8217;s football offices in the McCue Center were dark except for two rooms: coach Al Groh&#8217;s lair and just down the hall, the Cavaliers&#8217; version of an NFL &#8220;war room.&#8221;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2009 00:01:58 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/uva_staff_readies_for_final_battle/35206/#When:05:01:58Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>A truly offensive showing</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_truly_offensive_showing/34691/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Halftime in the Virginia locker room was no place for the faint of heart.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2009 00:01:25 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_truly_offensive_showing/34691/#When:05:01:25Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavaliers don&#8217;t get change they need</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_dont_get_change_they_need/34452/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
On a day when change was the key word floating around the nation&#8217;s capital, all Virginia got a few miles up the road was the same old thing.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:01:03 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavaliers_dont_get_change_they_need/34452/#When:05:01:03Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>A massive recruiting weekend for UVa</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_massive_recruiting_weekend_for_uva/34309/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Wahoo Nation has its collective eyes turned today toward major recruiting target Morgan Moses, hoping the big offensive tackle can eventually lead Virginia football to the promised land.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 18 Jan 2009 00:01:07 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_massive_recruiting_weekend_for_uva/34309/#When:05:01:07Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Tar Heels get the message</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/tar_heels_get_the_message/34228/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
On the bus ride home from Winston-Salem last Sunday night, North Carolina coach Roy Williams made his team watch the game film of their 92-89 loss to Wake Forest.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:01:50 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/tar_heels_get_the_message/34228/#When:05:01:50Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Ogletree makes a puzzling decision</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/ogletree_makes_a_puzzling_decision/33804/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
For the last five years or so, Virginia coach Al Groh has made it an annual practice of sitting down with some of his players in December to help them evaluate their pro football possibilities.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:01:46 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/ogletree_makes_a_puzzling_decision/33804/#When:05:01:46Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cavs dive into meat of their schedule</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavs_dive_into_meat_of_their_schedule/33739/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Play time is over. Now the real basketball season begins.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:01:27 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/cavs_dive_into_meat_of_their_schedule/33739/#When:05:01:27Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>The spread could be a boon for UVa&#8217;s attack</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/the_spread_could_be_a_boon_for_uvas_attack/33379/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Back in 2004, neither Al Groh or Gregg Brandon could have imagined that they would some day be putting their minds together on the same football staff.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 00:01:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/the_spread_could_be_a_boon_for_uvas_attack/33379/#When:05:01:02Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Effort isn&#8217;t there for Cavaliers</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/effort_isnt_there_for_cavaliers/33118/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There&#8217;s a board in the Virginia locker room that lists several points of emphasis for Coach Dave Leitao&#8217;s basketball team.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 21 Dec 2008 00:01:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/effort_isnt_there_for_cavaliers/33118/#When:05:01:38Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>A living piece of Virginia history</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_living_piece_of_virginia_history/32795/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Every once in a while, you stumble into a fun story and while I was researching my new book on Virginia football  &#8212; insert shameless self plug here: now available in bookstores before Christmas &#8212; I ran into one of those such stories.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 14 Dec 2008 00:01:36 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/a_living_piece_of_virginia_history/32795/#When:05:01:36Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>NFL history on display on ESPN</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/nfl_history_on_display_on_espn/32779/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If you&#8217;re a real football fan, the kind who appreciates the history of the game, then you&#8217;re in for a TV treat this evening.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 13 Dec 2008 00:01:54 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/nfl_history_on_display_on_espn/32779/#When:05:01:54Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Groh bashers only tell part of the story</title>
          <link>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/groh_bashers_only_tell_part_of_the_story/32478/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Regardless of what transpires over the next 24 hours in terms of Virginia football, there are a few things that need to be said.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:01:08 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.dailyprogress.com/cdp/sports/columnists/ratcliffe_on/article/groh_bashers_only_tell_part_of_the_story/32478/#When:05:01:08Z</guid>
        </item>
    
    </channel>
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