News Flash: Groh quiet as criticism mounts

Virginia coach Al Groh was asked Sunday how he felt about those who were calling for a coaching change. He has two years remaining on a contract that pays him $1.7 million per season

“I don’t have anything to say,” Groh told reporters. “I know a lot more about the situation than anybody. Maybe someday I’ll say something about it.”

Groh and his players were booed as they left the field after last Saturday’s 28-17 loss to Duke. Even worse, only 41,713 fans attended the game, the lowest total since Scott Stadium was expanded in 2000.

Groh is in his eighth season at Virginia, entering this year with a 56-44 overall record and a 34-30 mark in the ACC. The Cavaliers are 3-5 this season and have posted a losing record in two of the previous three seasons.

UVa needs to win three of its last four games to be bowl eligible, which won’t be easy. Games remain against Miami, Boston College, Clemson and Virginia Tech.

ND’s Crist hurt

Notre Dame backup quarterback Dayne Crist injured his left knee in the fourth quarter of the Fighting Irish’s 40-14 win over Washington State last week. The sophomore is slated to have a MRI on the knee Monday.

If Crist is out, Evan Sharpley will move to second team behind Jimmy Clausen. Notre Dame plays host to Navy this Saturday.

Ponder expected to play

Florida State quarterback Christian Ponder suffered bruised ribs in the Seminoles’ 45-42 win over N.C. State last week and at one point almost didn’t return to action.

Ponder should be ready for Saturday’s game at Clemson.

FSU, 4-4 overall and 2-3 in the ACC, needs Ponder, who is having a breakout season and emerging as one of the nation’s top quarterbacks.

Georgia QB shuffle?

Georgia coach Mark Richt has not said if he will change quarterbacks after last week’s 41-17 loss to Florida. But he said that any position change likely will be decided by Tuesday.

Bulldog senior starter Joe Cox completed 11 of 20 passes for 165 yards with three interceptions, giving him 12 picks for the season. Only Ole Miss’ Jevan Snead has more with 13. Cox has tossed an interception in every game this season. Cox is the No. 5 most efficient quarterback in the SEC.

Richt could turn to sophomore Logan Gray or true freshman Aaron Murray this week against Tennessee Tech. Gray has completed 1 of 7 passes for 6 yards with an interception this season. He also has run four times for three yards.

Georgia (4-4, 3-3 SEC) has lost thee of its last four games. League games remain at home against Auburn and Kentucky and a non-conference game at Georgia Tech.