By Brendan Crowley

A rivalry game with big national implications went down on Tuesday night in Morgantown, as West Virginia won its 8th straight with a 68-61 thrilling victory over #15 Virginia. Despite the Mountaineers not being able to impose their up-tempo style on the game, they were able to come away with a huge home victory behind a big game from star senior guard Jevon Carter. Here are 3 key takeaways from what was one of the best games of a packed Tuesday night slate:

1. Virginia’s Bench – The Cavs will be near the top of the ACC by year’s end there’s no questioning that, but in order for them to make that next step and become a contender in the conference they’ll need more scoring outside of Devon Hall and Kyle Guy. Both were sensational last night, as they’ve been all year, the guards’ 37 combined points is what kept UVA in the game during the 2^nd half. Other players will have to step up to create their own shot as the season goes along with Guy receiving more and more attention each night.
2. Pressure. Pressure. Pressure.- The Mountaineers have had a stifling defense all season and their ability to keep the Cavs on their toes the entire second half is what ultimately led to a West Virginia win. The Cavaliers’ 14 turnovers turned into points on the other end for the entirety of the game.
3. Jevon Carter is the REAL DEAL – Last year’s Big12 defensive player of the year is back and better than ever before. He’s leading the nation in steals at a staggering 4.5 steals per game (yes,you read that correctly). Carter filled the stat sheet against the Cavs with 23 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists along with going 9/10 from the free throw line. West Virginia’s returning players will have a major impact moving forward and expect this team to continue its winning ways as the Mountaineers will next take a road trip to Pittsburgh.