Virginia Cavaliers vs Coastal Carolina Chanticleers Picks and Predictions August 30th 2025

Coastal Carolina vs Virginia Picks and Predictions — August 30, 2025

In a matchup of teams looking to bounce back from subpar seasons, the Virginia Cavaliers will host the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers on Saturday night. Both teams will feature new quarterbacks: Chandler Morris for Virginia and MJ Morris for Coastal Carolina. With both squads eager to start the season strong, this promises to be an exciting opener in Charlottesville.

Oddsmakers have Virginia as a -6 favorite, with the total set at 56.

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Virginia Can Win If…

Chandler Morris lives up to expectations in his first start for the Cavaliers. Morris, a transfer from North Texas, brings leadership and experience to the quarterback position, which will be vital for Virginia’s success.

“It was really, really good to see that (during practices),” said Virginia coach Tony Elliott about Morris’ leadership.

Virginia also benefits from continuity with the coaching staff, having kept the same group from last year. If the Cavaliers can play with the discipline and structure that Elliott is known for, they should have the upper hand.

Coastal Carolina Can Win If…

Their quarterback situation remains solid and the offense clicks. MJ Morris, named the starting quarterback, will need to show why he was chosen for the job after competing with Tad Hudson and Samari Collier. Coastal Carolina also has a talented receiving corps, led by Jameson Tucker, who hauled in six touchdown passes last season.

“Our leadership, in general, as a football team is better,” said Coastal Carolina coach Tim Beck, emphasizing the improvement in team chemistry.

Coastal Carolina’s defense, led by solid performers like linebacker Malik McLean, will need to limit Virginia’s offense and prevent explosive plays if they hope to pull off the upset.

Key NCAAF Betting Trends

The Lean

Pick: Virginia -6
Projected Final Score: Virginia 30, Coastal Carolina 24

Virginia enters as the favorite in this matchup, with the home field and experience at quarterback on their side. Coastal Carolina will likely give them a strong test, especially with a quarterback battle of their own, but Virginia’s overall stability and leadership should guide them to a narrow victory.

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