Michiana native and walk-on running back for UVA Owen Gardner chats with the ABC57 Kickoff crew

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The Cavaliers are coming off a big win over then 18th ranked Pitt last week and are hoping to ride that momentum against Notre Dame with help from walk-on running back and Michiana native Owen Gardner.

Gardner is a 2020 Cassopolis High School graduate, finishing his high school career with 1400 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns.

He went on to play football and run track at Hillsdale College before he applied to grad schools around the country.

Gardner said that's when he took a leap of faith on UVA, trying out and earning a spot on the scout team.