Virginia-TCU: No-Win Situation For Horned Frogs

TCU planned their out-of-conference schedule with two road games against ACC opponents, thinking that these wins would strengthen the Frogs' claim on a BCS bid.

Unfortunately for TCU, the season opener against the University of Virginia Cavaliers just got downgraded to a no-win situation.

Just two years ago, the Virginia was an ACC contender.  But with two out of the last three seasons being below par, Cavalier coach Al Groh is getting used to the hot-seat.

Groh fired his son as offensive coordinator during the off-season, and brought in a new spread attack.

Groh also fired his defensive coordinator, taking over the job himself.

UVa had looked at this season as one where the Cavaliers might return to respectability and bowl eligibility.

That will no longer be possible, as the Cavaliers did the unthinkable and lost to FCS William & Mary.

UVa had numerous difficulties in the game, including seven turnovers.

William & Mary overwhelmed the Cavaliers' O-line. 

The wide receivers faced difficulties getting open. 

The three quarterbacks underperformed.

So, TCU is left with the difficult situation of going into Virginia to face a desperate team looking to save their season.

If TCU wins, TCU will gain nothing.  No one will be impressed by a win over the pitiful Cavaliers. 

If the Frogs lose, they will lose most of the hard-earned respect gained last season.

A TCU loss is virtually unthinkable.  But so was Virginia's loss to William & Mary.

With BYU's epic victory Saturday night in the Frogs' home county, TCU's out-of-conference schedule looks pitiful in comparison. 

TCU will rely on conference competition to obtain national respect.

It is a good thing the Frogs garnered so much respect last year, or they would not be so high in the polls or have a chance to contend for a BCS berth. 

As it is, even an undefeated TCU squad will have to contend with Boise State for a BCS bid, with only a slightly better schedule.