Virginia victory would end Hokies' bowl hopes

"The way you end the season is huge for the next season, no matter what it is," Snyder said. "Especially a game like this where it is a big rivalry and it's an in-state game. Not just for us on the team, but as far as recruiting goes and as far as the perception (of the program) inside the state goes.

"We've had a negative image of us for the past 10 years or so because we haven't beaten them."

Or been close.

In the last three years, the scores have been 42-13, 37-7 and 38-0.

Phillip Sims transferred from Alabama after last season, and now shares Virginia's quarterback job with Michael Rocco. Heading into the offseason on a winning note would be "big time for us," he said.

"I think it's more than just the streak we're getting ready for this week. We know we're capable of winning this football game. We've just got to do the things that we're capable of doing," Sims said.

"We've got to prepare this week like this means something."

Rocco, a junior, is certain that won't be a problem.

"It's all about beating Virginia Tech, and I don't know if it's added incentive to beat them just because it would put them out of a bowl game, but it is a big rivalry, so that would be nice," he said.

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