We went down to Virginian’s place and ran all over them… thanks to young Mr. Hall for that and came home with a much needed conference win.

We’ll  see how our fellow ACC members do today but regardless of that this win keeps us smack in the race for the ACC Coastal title.

I still haven’t watched the game yet -will do tonight – so I’ll  defer to your thoughts on the game…

Michaelangelo holds a degree in Travel Writing from the University of Pittsburgh. He was a former staff writer for InPittsburgh Newsweekly, and currently resides near Atlanta, Georgia. He has been a Pitt fan since 1997 after he witnessed Pitt upset #22 Miami on Thursday night at Pitt Stadium.

254 thoughts on “Yeah Us!!! Pitt wins 23-13”

  1. Reposted from game thread….

    Had a blast last night and some random comments…..

    POV crew tailgate in pouring down rain. Thank God for canopy tents, GoreTex and BigB’s keg of Crown Royal. But how great to connect with the likes of Erie Express, BigB & JeannieB, Richman and a supporting cast of other diehard fans. Folks traveled from Pgh, York, New Jersey, North Carolina and just down the road in Williamsburg. My only regret was that a bunch of you others weren’t able to be there.
    We sat with the parents and got great insight into Pitt’s recruiting, the assessment of the coaches and so on. Takeaways are that multiple families thought Pitt really had their act together during the recruiting process. Multiple players told me postgame that they love Narduzzi. Borbely is highly respected by his unit and they feel well-coached by the Emperor. Turns out Ming plays the nickname game too….learned some of those, which I won’t say here, but it’s clear they think he’s a good guy.
    a number of you have seen the video of the team singing to all of us post-game, which was special. They heard our rendition of Sweet Caroline during the game…nice to know they enjoyed it. After the team sang, Duzz came out on the field to do a quick interview- guess the locker room was too noisy. He made a point to yell up to all of us, “I want to thank all of you guys for coming tonight. Means a lot.” Not that any of that is really a big deal in and of itself, but it’s part of the fun of traveling to see one’s team win a big road game. I highly recommend going to one if you can.
    Great win for the program…already wired for next Saturday’s game….looking forward to seeing a lot of you pre-game…after last night, we probably won’t be serving breakfast fare. Looks like we may get a 330 or 7pm timeslot.

    Happy BD Reed. Hope you enjoyed watching the game.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. JoeL — Hats off to you and all the Pitt fans – including my son – who traveled to attend last night’s game.

      Sounds like you had a great experience. One for the memory bank! And nice to hear some positives about the program.

      I was impressed with the interview Coach Borbely did last week — sure sounded good…

      Go Pitt!

      Liked by 1 person

  2. Hall and Ollison are different runners this year. Way more physical. Is it the desire to get drafted?

    The OL coach gets big time credit, but still deserves criticism for the pass blocking.

    Love watching the OL take charge. It has happened in several games this year.

    At some point, Pickett will have to pass. The lack of passing game will cost them.

    Hamlin is turning into a really good player. Great game.

    The DL is set up to be good for the next couple years.

    Like

    1. Have to disagree on Hall. He has run hard his whole career. Even early on, when he wasn’t having much success, he always got some yards after contact. He’s not elusive, but he’s tough and as we’ve all seen — he’s darn fast!

      Course running backs should be tougher and more effective with all the experience Ollison and Hall now have. I think Ollie losing some weight has helped him…

      Go Pitt.

      Like

        1. Not sure I understand the difference.

          In his first couple years, if there wasn’t a hole, he’d try to make one. He never danced, it was always all-ahead-full.

          I remember that this was the only aspect of his game, as a freshman and sophomore, that I found at all noteworthy….

          Anyway, nice to see him coming through for the team this year and last year with some crucial runs…

          Go Pitt.

          Like

  3. Was a late Friday night at my nephews wedding reception, got a bit tipsy and woke up late this morning and remembered a wonderful dream…

    …Pitt went down South and a kid named Hall ran all over a Wahoo D and silenced a hostile crowd…

    …another long field goal in the 4th Q to seal an improbable road win against a ranked opponent…

    ….Panthers are in first place in the ACC P-5 Coastal division…

    …Yawn…

    Holy Can You Believe It Batman!!!!! It WASN’T a Dream!!!! WOW!!!!

    Couldn’t watch the game but will try and catch the replay, but this is amazing! Will hold my comments until I actually see the film, but what an uplifting and wonderful win for a beleaguered Pitt football team.

    Can’t wait for Saturday and a showdown at The Big Yellow with The Hokies, if fans don’t turn out for this game they never will.

    Congrats to the players, coaches and fans who braved the weather and traveled down to Charlottesville.

    H2P

    Liked by 2 people

  4. 529 comments on a win thread that was a little over 1/2 a day long. That should put to rest the notion that we’d rather whine about a loss….

    Liked by 1 person

  5. All,

    See why I don’t do prognostications Reed?

    Man was I way off on my prediction. However, that said who saw a defense giving up 113 on the ground being doubled by Darrin Hall.

    Hats off to the Pitt team. honestly guys looking at the box score and seeing the paltry # of attempts made by KP, if you would’ve showed me just that I would’ve cringed and said OMG…PItt got blown out.

    But what an achievement being one dimensional on O and still being able to dominate on the ground.

    Also, while UVA seemed to get their pass yards our D did two awesome things…shut down the run game and prevent them from getting in EZ.

    Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to watch the game…my friends are expecting their first daughter together and I chose to spend time with them to congratulate them on their soon to be arrival.

    However, my prognostication of losing to UVA is now gone Kerplunk and my 5-7 prognostication is in serious jeopardy.

    And you know what? I couldn’t be happier. I am a Pitt man through and through, I want to see them in a bowl every year and I want to see progress. If I have to eat crow because I am labeled an “Eeyore” I am happy to do so (please provide A1 steak sauce, however).

    Yes it’s not a major turnaround but at the midpoint after the UCF debacle many of us were even struggling with finding more than 4 wins.

    while I still have my doubts about PN, I do tip my cap to the players and their heart.

    HTP!!!

    Dave

    Like

    1. I predicted Pitt would win if Ollison & Carter could play (didn’t try to guess a score though). They did both play but didn’t do much. Ollison did get a very important 3rd down run for the 1st down on the big horse collar drive I think it was.

      Like

  6. The thing about Ollison and Hall is that when the o-line opens the hole, there is serious beef going through it.
    When they have a head of steam, no one wants to hit them head on. Hall carrying that guy half way through the end zone was a thing of beauty. They are definitely full-grown men.

    Like

  7. Funny how some see things differently. I never thought Hall finished his runs falling forward and through tacklers but he has improved some this year.

    Hall I see as having better vision than in past that might give him some elusiveness although definitely not a start and stop or change direction type that I think would really make him elusive. He does have enough to make ONE guy miss, but not consistently. Big time top end speed that you could really see in the 75 yard run(if still allowed) when you see him run away from FFFFFrench though FF may not have been at top speed as he wasn’t in position to need to make a block or even get into position to interfere. In same replay, Hall looked MUCH bigger than FF.

    Like

  9. The good thing is that Watson was smart enough to play the hot hand and gave up on the jet sweeps and passing game which allowed the power running game to take over. No bubble screens necessary.

    He took what the weather conditions and opposing defense dictated. We have seen too many coaches outsmart themselves.

    Like

  10. I did like the roll out by Picket with the throw to Mathews, not sure why they don’t do more of that. Helped us get out of an early hole.

    Like

  11. Well, they have met my expectations for wins this year. Anything from now on is gravy, but now I want the whole meal with all the trimmings!! This is what winning does. If they run the table will ?I feel a higher high or if they fall short will I feel a lower low?? Not sure how this will work out, but no one can say Pitt football hasn’t been exciting. Guess it’s been the journey, not the destination. ( but I want the destination, I can taste it). PS. Son home, Pappy took beating. Working on Old Rip van Winkle lot b 12 yr old. Hope one of them will survive till Charlotte, lol.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I mainly want a bowl win for a change. It’s the last thing recruits see & remember. Us fans too…

      Like

  12. Another item of note: Thought I saw Paris Ford joining in the post game song and dance on the field after the game. Meanwhile, Hamlin now seems content. Salahudin??

    Like

    1. Ike, you are correct on Paris Ford. Seemed to be one of the happiest players engaging with us fans after the game. HUGH smile and very enthused.

      Sat with Hamlin’s parents, who are classy people. Dad and son were very connected throughout the game as #3 looked for and pointed dad’s way often during the game. Hamlin ran to the locker room with about 30 seconds to go in the 1st half – he’s nicked up and getting treatment for something. Twice in the 2nd half he made similar trips to the locker room.

      Houdini seems to have disappeared. Hope he make an appearance in the near future.

      Liked by 2 people

  14. Thrilled with the win.
    Defense played better.
    Running game rocked.
    But the passing game keeps taking backward steps.

    Like

    1. none of these Pitt coaches have a good record against ranked teams
      Despite winning 10 games, Wanny under achieved in a weak Big East
      And despite having very good recruiting classes
      I will admit that Narduzzi might be the best game day coach of the mediocre bunch
      But where Narduzzi fails is in player development and recruiting
      Talent wins in the end
      Coaches just get in the way

      Like

      1. Did you watch the game last night?

        What I saw in person in Charlottesville was a team that is in very good shape – they wore out UVA. They played hard for FOUR qtrs. I saw a coach with the “nads” to make game winning calls and a lot of young talent flying around on a muddy field.

        I also saw Pitt beat a ranked team on National TV to take over sole possession of 1st place in the ACC Coastal.

        This team has much work to do to get into the top 25 and major areas that need improved, Lyke passing, WR route running and TE play. On D we need better LB play – Wirginis is missed, despite what some say on this blog.

        But for one messy, rainy night in Charlottesville, this team of 3* players played Lyke they believe in their coach and are proud to wear a Pitt uniform.

        I saw none of the negative spew you profess…

        Liked by 6 people

        1. yes – i watched the game
          tell me – has Narduzzi won the division yet?
          Has he won a bowl game
          is he recruiting 4 stars who are the key to success
          has he developed players
          what will happen next year when the line is 100% turnover and Pitt loses 2000 yards in rushing and the best FB in college
          I’m waiting

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          1. Nope to your first 2 questions after year three. But in year four, Duzz has a shot at both.

            The remaining questions most teams in college FB face each year.

            For me, I’ll enjoy the entertainment. I want a winning program just as much as most other Pitt fans. I just keep my negative comments about the team to myself. Sitting with the parents of players yesterday changed my perspective on bashing individual guys – no need for it…

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  17. No question this has been a crazy season. Where else can you get this much entertainment for the buck?

    Think about it — I think it was about 2 weeks ago when Erie Express — one of the best Panther fans in Panther Nation — was all set to wash-his-hands of this football team. Erie Express, for crying out loud!

    Then EE comes back and even travels down to Charlottesville for last night’s game. That what Pitt does to even it’s most enthusiastic fans. Just crazy.

    Now to root for those BC Eagles!

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

  18. Only saw the second half – but sounded like our Aussie punter had a solid game. Next problem to fix — the passing game…oh, and the tackling.

    Noticed a nice block by TE Carrigan on the first TD run. Noticed. Nice block by Bookser on the second TD run. Noticed a great block by Aston on the third TD run…

    Obviously the coaches must have confidence in the center and guards to go for that 4th down short yardage play so deep in your own territory…

    Interesting how Coach Duzz is perceived to be pretty conservative, but he does some bold things. I like bold, even though bold doesn’t always work…

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. For those complaining we will have no O line for next year, I have a feeling we might see Carrigan get moved to tackle (kinda like the position switch with O’Neill). I agree that I’ve seen some very nice blocking from him.

      Like

  19. My friend Tx….. you can really get my head shaking like no other, Upitt included. You really should take up something a lot less stressful for yourself other than rooting for PITT. How about going over to Afghanistan and defusing landmines as an example. Seems like the perfect job considering your “MINED” set. Your buddy ike…

    H2P!

    Like

    1. maybe UPitt along with some others see Pitt for what it truly is
      A team that is mediocre at best
      An offense and defense ranked in the 80-90’s
      Look at what national people are saying about Pitt and the Coastal conference…take some time and do a simple search on Google and Twitter
      I suggest to look at things objectively and to not drink the Kool-Aid

      Liked by 1 person

    2. I am stuck with rooting for Pitt since I chose it as my school just like UPitt during the same era in the 90’s
      What he and I dont accept, is the mediocrity
      I experienced some of the worst football ever known to man during the Hackett and Majors 2 periods
      Please dont question my loyalty
      Tone it down. Words do matter

      Liked by 1 person

  20. All aspects of our passing game are awful — pass blocking, QB decision making and accuracy, and WR play.

    Where are the exceptional catches? In some cases, where are the routine catches?

    I wanted to scream at Jacques-Louis last night for not catching that ball late in the game. Correction — I did scream at him. Seems to me JL has a lot of talent, but was a case where he needed a redshirt. He still plays too much like a high schooler…but potential galore.

    And there were a couple of drops last week. Sometimes it seems like the WRs are not prepared for the velocity that KP is delivering the ball at…

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I really don’t understand why folks say that JS-L has enormous potential. Certainly he has not shown anything in the field. To the contrary he has shown nothing. To my mind a pass thrown to him is a pass attempt wasted. Maybe next year or the year after we will see what the staff is so excited about. If it happens in one of the next few games I will be pleased to no end. I’m just not expecting it because what I see on the field is a kid who is not ready for football at this level.

      Like

      1. That’s a very fair comment, as Shocky’s production has been minuscule.

        But Shocky does seem like more of a quick-twitch athlete than our other WRs, and he has some quicks — at least to my eye.

        We sure need the light to come on for him soon…

        Go Pitt.

        Like

    2. We screamed together John !
      It’s amazing to me that an O line who may be one of Pitts best run blocking lines, can’t pass block to save their lives. Pickett showed a lot of guts and toughness last night.

      Like

      1. They must have slow feet and can’t move laterally, only forward. It has to be footwork….they’re strong enough. Coach them up!

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  21. I loved that game, but mostly I’m happy for Coach Narduzzi and his staff. They have been heavily criticized, and now it appears that their hard work is paying dividends. There are still some holes on the team, but they are playing hard and tough. I admire their collective grit. I believe we’re moving in the right direction and the best is yet to come. HTP

    Like

  23. @wwb – i am confused by what you are trying to show with the chart above. Is the point that all of the coaches had very middling records regardless of schedule? That’s what I get out of it. I think you are proving the point that Pitt has been mediocre for a long, sustained period of time.

    Maybe it is different degree of middling by coach? Maybe I just don’t understand the point which is probably what most think when i post something……like this for instance.

    @Ike – I wouldn’t say Idowu had a good game or great game even. He and Zeise struggled although Zeise made one real nice play late in the game. The Pitt DL controlled the trenches as did the OL which was a long time coming for both units. That is why we won the game! We should appreciate and celebrate the win, but still realize we are a 5-4 team.

    VTech looks very beatable this coming week.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. HIII, the only thing I’m trying to prove with that that chart is what I have been saying here for a long while … Narduzzi has faced a harder schedule than his predecessors beginning Year 1, no matter how you assess it.

      Like

    2. the chart is used by Narduzzi lovers to defend his very mediocre record
      The author states that Narduzzi has achieved the same # of wins against ranked teams in less time than Wanny
      Who is saying that Wanny was anything more than a mediocre coach
      Wanny did less with more than any coach in Pitt football history
      So the benchmark for Narduzzi is former mediocre coaches
      So that makes Narduzzi maybe just a little better than bad?
      At least Wanny won 10 games and bowl games
      And Wanny was paid $1M and not $3.5M

      Like

    3. Huff the third, I included Idowu only because he was a walk-on. I think Zeise made a couple other good plays forcing the ball back inside and made another important tackle. Not great but he played his position a little better per usual.

      and Tx, don’t blame me because you and others went to PITT and they sucked. Constant criticism? OK go for it. Why do you have a monopoly on criticism?

      Like

      1. I’m not blaming you but you think that somehow criticism isnt warranted and that somehow those who do criticize are not loyal. If anything, those who attended Pitt when Pitt averaged 3 wins per season should be commended for sticking with the program. You are so lucky that you saw greatness. I saw crap and continue seeing it to this day.

        And I think I’m pretty fair and balanced. I call it like I see it. Just because you dont like what I say, doesnt make it Fake News. I dont live in an alternative reality.

        Lets just pretend that Pitt isnt ranked in the 90’s on both offense and defense. Lets just pretend that Pitt didnt lose every game this year against good teams. Penn State loss looking real bad right now. Temple scoring 40 against UCF looking real bad right now. Pitt being NC’s only win this year looking real bad right now.

        I look at the big picture, trends and the future. The here and now is gone.

        Like

  24. Huff, I understand what you are saying- kind of scary, right? I do tend to follow the adage that you are what your record says you are. This team has not been consistent in any area except for the running game. So it is hard to predict which team will show up. I predicted wins for both Duke and UVA, so I’m not totally negative about the situation, but Pitt could easily lose 2 of the last 3. So while Ike is right to want to enjoy the wins, Tex has a longer term perspective that is probably close to the mark.

    Like

  25. So did anyone see the PSU kid #21 NOT get thrown out for targeting?

    Officiating and in particular this targeting enforcement is an absolute travesty.

    Compare that to Pitt’s Jones last night. What do you think JoeKnew?

    Disgusting that this garbage passes as officiating. And the coaches and kids suffer.

    Liked by 2 people

  26. And then the dumb arse commentators do their usual back up job for the call, rarely questioning unlike the ESPN guy last night who called their bs for what it was at halftime – I forget his name now.

    Like

  27. PN deserves criticism. No doubt.

    He makes six wins this year he isn’t going anywhere.

    He wins the coastal he is here for a while and the criticism should be dialed down some.

    Like

  37. Michigan’s Khaleke Hudson (also a Pittsburgh native) just did the McSwirley home run swing after another INT.

    Double Sweet!

    Liked by 1 person

  41. Tvax, all I can say is he hit him in the head. Just because one gets called and one doesn’t does not make it any less so. Was it close, Yup, was it questionable, yup, was it targeting, Yup. Would I have called it, nope.

    Liked by 1 person

  42. BC beats Va Tech

    Michigan destroys Pedos

    Duke up early on Miami. (Rosier benched)

    Pitt beats Virginia.

    Shaping up to be a nice football weekend.

    Liked by 2 people

  43. With Va. Tech loss Pitt stands alone atop the Coastal Division of the ACC! Only a true Pitt fan could understand the potential anguish that possibly lies ahead. If Pitt wins out, they win the Coastal. If Pitt beats Va. Tech and Miami, they win the Coastal as they own the tie breaker over Virginia. This reminds one of the year we lost to Cincinnati the last game of the season in 2009 on a bobbled snap to lose the Big East. Oh, the demons of Pitt football loom large in my mind.

    Liked by 2 people

  45. With Michigan seemingly back where they were pre-DickRod……..The Pedders are most likely eternally locked into 3rd or 4th place depending on how Michigan State is that year.

    Exactly what they deserve. Well not exactly, but it will do.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I would rather we win the Coastal than have the other teams lose the Coastal. Narduzzi needs to make sure we take it one game at a time. VA Tech is vulnerable to the run as proven by their defeat by GA Tech. Hopefully we will not see any more going for it on our own ten yard line on fourth down anymore. The odds are in our favor now so we should play and coach smart. Pickett will need to complete more passes against teams going forward than he did against Virginia on Friday to keep the defenses somewhat honest. We can expect 8 in the box the rest of the way.

      Really pulling for Duke tonight.

      Liked by 1 person

  48. Ok, so now who saw the LSU non-targeting? Crazy bad….at least in contrast to last night.

    Totally wrong call versus Pitt;s Jones.

    You must be the only one that thinks it was called right JoeKnew….other than the replay booth guy/s.

    Like

  50. Moving forward…. Heading straight toward the tenth game of this season and PITT is in sole possession of first place in the Coastal Division of the ACC. What else do you want from an average college football program? What do you want for nothing?

    It got me singing……Rubber Briskets…..

    Liked by 1 person

  53. Just a “heads up” guys. Some comments are getting awfully close on this thread to what Reed was tired of: POVers going after POVers.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Yes, sorry JoeKnew.

      I’m pissed at the refereeing,,,,your posts are always great, I just see this one a lot differently. Even though we won it is a principle thing for me. Refs need to be good but review booth needs to be perfect and consistent across the sport.

      Like

  54. Almost as enjoyable as watching the Pitt win is seeing Michigan lay 42 on the Pedos, and the time out is just icing on the cake. Now, if Whiskey can come through with a Pedo pounding, it will be sweet revenge on the Nitters this year.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. A 4 loss season, not counting the very possible bowl loss, and they lose McJagoff at the end of the year. It would be sweet, and very possible to beat the pedos next year if we develop any passing game by then. Would be even sweeter that the 12-0 game.

      Like

  55. A couple random comments:
    Kudos to UVA class in showing respect to the mourning city of Pittsburgh.

    You have to love being a Pitt fan. It’s like rooting for a different team every week. Someone used the “box of chocolates” metaphor. So true. Want something different from your team? Wait a week. Love shootouts? Want stellar D? Rising star out of nowhere? Old warhorse pounding the rock? Who knows? Maybe a masterful passing game is just around the corner.

    We should be disappointed when Pitt doesn’t win. (But what a sweet win!)

    Pitt is supposed to be a powerhouse. It’s a truth like the French are supposed to have great cuisine. Tough Western PA football is part of the definition of college football. True if Pitt never wins another game. Given that truth, Pitt is SUPPOSED to beat Virginia. They’re SUPPOSED to beat all the ACC costal teams. Every year. Fluke loss now and then. A couple losses in down years, maybe. And Pitt is SUPPOSED to win the ACC most years just like USC is SUPPOSED to win the its conference. Clemson, Florida State, Miami, (like Oregon ) are NOT part of the definition of college football. Newbies.

    HTP

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Well all of that is somewhat true. But we were supposed to(according to college football history) win the BigEast every year too ! How’d that work out.

      Although grouping in Miami with the other Coastal teams, as to who we are supposed to beat isn’t something I would do. Although we have a good chance of beating them again this year.

      Pitt muckety mucks have let all these other programs pass us by, until I see a major Capital Investment
      from them, I don’t think we’ll be a ‘player’ again.

      Again nice thoughts, and I’ve had them myself. But money talks and the rest is only hoping that lightning strikes like it did in 1976 thru 1982.

      Like

  56. Hey, to top off the college football weekend, we can root for Oregon State to lose tonight. The Beavers — led by infamous Athletic Director Scott Barnes — are 2 and 6 and should lose their final four games to finish 2 and 10.

    Barnes hires a new FB coach a year ago. He’s off to a Stallings-esque start… Couldn’t happen to a more fraudulent AD…

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Yea Hermin’s Hermits got very lucky last week to get their 2nd win and 1st conference win of the year.
      Their BBall program is in shambles as well finishing in 10th place of the PAC 12.

      Couldn’t happen to a bigger jerkoff ~

      Like

    2. I was just thinking about that tonight…but then I figured I should Lyke them since they hired that cancer away from us. I mean, what other college or university would be that stupid?

      Like

    3. Barnes was so F-ing smug. That press conference he held after Dixon left was comical when looking back because the dude whiffed so bad at making his hire, which in the end was done to help out a buddy.

      It’s still a poor look for Gallagher, but getting Capel has made it hoops more exciting again.

      Like

    1. With the loss by Miami, Pitt needs to win next week at home against Virginia Tech and then just one of the last two games. The key is a win next week!!!

      Liked by 2 people

  58. Just to voice my opinion here. I read pretty much all the comments here today and do not think there was anything so egregious that it should get anyone’s underpants in an uproar. If this back and forth bothers someone so much we get constantly reprimanded. I’m in the wrong place. Lets us all talk among ourselves like adults talk to each other. Life is not all wine and roses Jim!

    Like

    1. I think Jim’s point is to let other’s here have their opinion no matter how much you dislike it. Reed wants it it that way too I would guess given his many warnings to this point.

      I believe we already established the fact that we are all diehard Pitt fans and none here are trolls. Naturally if one has an intelligent set of stats or facts to counter a post, then all the better. That makes the board even more enjoyable to read.

      If you don’t like a poster(s) here, don’t read their posts.

      Like

      1. Jack and I say this with all respect. Well a question first. Have you ever read where I police anyone about what they actually say? I try not to cross that line. Why when I hear some posters complain and it’s constant, I can’t question the timing. All the while never saying they shouldn’t express their opinions. BTW, that’s just me expressing my opinion. If someone wants to harp on a point I reserve the right to ask why. thanks Jack. . …ike

        Like

        1. Sound familiar? Your 1st post yesterday after the win and after tvax1 said “I’m going to say it. UVA and all of the Coastal absolutely SUCK” :

          “November 2, 2018 at 10:56 pm

          excuse me friend, not a fair comment. Give PITT some credit here instead of the demeaning a good PITT win. You sound like too many others.”

          Your 2nd post to in response to Tx:

          ” November 2, 2018 at 11:03 pm

          tx, I like you but that comment is way way way out of bounds. Shows your true colors and I’m not afraid to say it. Gte it together brother, you’re either with us of against us!:

          In your 3rd post you post this snarky comment trying to bait who knows who:

          ” November 2, 2018 at 11:21 pm

          If I can ask a question here? Did every player on the PITT football team that has been roundly criticized have a good game tonite? That is a question.”

          I frankly don’t care what you post….you should extend that courtesy too.

          Like

          1. Hey Jack, I’m sharing my opinion like I encourage everyone else to do. Never said anyone shouldn’t and BTW Jack, who’s scrutinizing who’s and policing comments? Maybe you?

            Like

            1. You asked: “Well a question first. Have you ever read where I police anyone about what they actually say?”

              Like

  60. Tvax, Thanks, the ACC crews are the worst. All you have to do is look at the games they do OOC. They really are poor. Everyone thinks there guys are the worst, but these crews really need replaced or retrained. Then again, they are shining stars compared to ACC hoops crews! lol

    Liked by 1 person

  61. The Black Shoes Pedder blog should be entertaining tonite.

    What is Franklinstein’s record now against Top 25 teams ?

    2 losses this year, one a utter blowout. Only win was a lucky one over an overrated Iowa team who
    went out and lost to Purdue today.

    Like

    1. I was just on there reading some stuff. 🙂

      Bob Pompeani just said that Franklin has never beaten any ranked team on the road. None…

      Like

      1. Wow, Franklinstein has been in Creepy Valley for 5 years and NONE.

        Another fraud program who schedules 7 or 8 home games per year. more than half of which are non P5 lightweights and BigJoke dregs like Buttgers, Indiana & Maryland

        Liked by 1 person

  62. And don’t look now, but the BigJoke West’s 1st Place team has 4 losses.

    I don’t watch the jerks on ESPN, but the BigJoke West certainly rivals(maybe surpasses) the ACC Coastal,
    in ineptitude.

    Duke which is near the bottom of the ACC Coastal beat the BigJoke West’s 1st place team.

    Like

    1. Ron Cook, the local Post-Gazette B1G jerk spends a lot of time on the Fan saying how bad the Coastal is. Meanwhile his college is ranked at the top of the West and they lost to Duke.

      Like

      1. Can’t stand that putz either, nor can I stomach listening to The Fan and their 15 minutes of commercials for every 30 minutes of programming.

        UPMC needs to buy that rag and fire all the anti-Pitt scumbags.

        Liked by 1 person

  63. Just watched Jimmy’s post game presser. Media giving it to him pretty good for his decision to put McSorely back in game with a bad knee. He made Michigan sound like they were the best team he ever played against. He’s such a fraud.

    Like

  64. Look at his record against Ohio State, Michigan and Michigan State. I think it’s now 3-12.

    That’s what 5 million a year buys you.

    Go Wisky!!!

    Like

    1. People say Pitt will never be great again as a winner or like the pedos. They aren’t much better than us in winning games. Except for recruiting wars, given the great fan support they get.

      Like

    2. But Frankie recruits well and beats all but the good teams, so that’s something. I’d sure like Pitt to have some of their players — though when I watched about 2 minutes of their game today, the Lions were tackling worse than Pitt…

      They really blew their chance this year and last with wasting having a pretty good, experienced QB…

      Go Pitt.

      Like

  66. Pedo gets all these great players, but can’t win with them. They must be cursed with the memory of Sandusky. I would have loved to watch today’s Pedo post game presser if JoePa was still at the helm. I can still hear his whining about forming an Eastern all sports conference. This convinces me even more that Pitt can indeed win big again with good coaching and a committed AD.

    Liked by 1 person

  67. Just read where VTech had some more starters on defense injured. That may explain some of the offensive success from BC. Time will tell. This is the first time in a long time that I will actually anticipate looking at the injury charts.

    At wwb – Now I get what you were trying to convey. I thought I was not understanding when in fact had it spot on. Pitt has just been mediocre for 35 years. Wow, imagine where we could have been with a half commitment by the Administration. Candidly, we would be in the top 10-15 with all time wins.

    I tend to slant with upitt and tex on how i look at the team players, coaches and administration.

    Best hit of the night and possibly the year, came from our fullback Aston, on punt coverage. Great hit although he led with his crown. The Jones call was a hit to the shoulder pads that slid up to the helmet. I think the refs blew that. I also think the refs blew the non targeting call on number 21 during the dairy game. That guy left his feet to hit the guy high, like a torpedo launch.

    I see nothing on this blog that requires a warning from the birthday boyeee! Hopefully, we get a PG update of his night on the town! Congrats friend. Keep feeling better.

    Liked by 3 people

  68. Read on a UVA blog where a fan remarked “how much more physical PITT was than the HOOS and 3 of the 4 losses were to top 10 teams!”

    We ( and that includes players and the true PITT faithful)are battle-tested and that establishes a “ taking care of business mindset” for Saturday and Saturday only…. one play at a time… one game at a time……H2P and WUPa$$

    Liked by 1 person

  69. Well we won on Annie’s birthday and not only won on Reeds birthday but key losses by other teams has helped my mood immensely.
    Anyone have a birthday coming up this weekend? Keep the good karma rolling.😎

    Liked by 2 people

  72. from a Dokish tweet:

    ACC Coastal wins since current league was finalized in 2014 UPDATED
    Pitt 22
    Miami 22
    VT 21
    UNC 19
    GT 18
    Duke 15
    Virginia 14

    and in 2014, Pitt was 2-4 vs Coastal .. thus it has been holding its own vs Coastal lately, except of course vs UNC.

    DiPaola tweeted late last night that if Pitt wins next 2 games, it will clinch before Miami. Of course, we all know that SOP could prevail — we’ll see.

    The point of all this is that Pitt has done well, and better than many here has perceived, against its peers. It’s just the difficult OOC that has dampened the image

    Liked by 4 people

  74. Wouldn’t surprise me to see PSU lobby for some Big 10 division reshuffling to make their path to the Championship rounds easier….

    Like

  77. I’d love to land Carter, but I also want a 230-pound guy since Narduzzi loves to run the football. Hopefully the staff is looking for one in the JuCo ranks.

    Like

  81. ike, is that our FB from WV? If so I’m hoping they are grooming him to replace George the Animal Aston.

    Like

  83. I don’t think many would disagree that the O-lines’s run blocking has far exceeded all expectations. I had hoped that they could be decent, because they are big strong guys, but they have become dominating. Especially with two stud powerful running backs and a super stud fullback. Make no mistake they are the strength of this team

    Unfortunately however they are a big weakness of the passing game. Although I do think they are getting better. Last game is not representative because of the field conditions which favored the rush. Case in point, we got six sacks against a pretty elusive QB and were in his face all day.

    The passing game is hampered by more problems than protection, but they do start if not end there. KP has not been making quick decisions and has been inaccurate on many throws. His receivers aren’t getting open and have dropped too many catch-able balls. Tight ends are weak and have to act as sixth linemen for pass protection.

    Hopefully the line and the running backs exert their dominance early vs VT. Getting the first TD vs VA was big. Hopefully a dry field will allow Ffrench and Carter to stretch the field so there is more space up the middle and time to throw.

    A big question is how will this team react to being possible favorites? VT will not overlook them, their backs are against the wall. Pitt should not get overconfident. In the ACC, any team can beat any other team except for Clemson and UNC who apparently can only beat Pitt. How will Pitt react to being in the driver’s seat? When was the last time anyone said that?

    Liked by 5 people

    1. Good stuff.

      Disagree on the TE being held in to block…imho the best way to release some of the pressure on the line and KP is to USE the TE as a receiver. Your offensive philosophy/plan needs to ACT not react.

      TE’s pass catching potential and their ability to tie up the linebackers and prevent them from blitzing or run support duties have been overlooked and marginalized by head coaches for many years, not just at Pitt, and not just in CFB. Teams that get it win championships.

      H2P

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Tommymac — I think the problem is we really don’t have a TE who can both block and catch passes. Carrigan can block, but at 6-7 and over 260 pounds, he’s kind of lumbering. Gragg is just a larger WR. I thought Medure was a good bet to step in – he’s pretty athletic – but it hasn’t happened. Maybe he’s too light yet.

        We’ve lost several TE players and recruits – and it shows.

        Freshman Kaymar Mimes looks the part at 6-5 and 235, but he’s learning the position after coming in as a DE….

        Go Pitt.

        Like

  84. I think the key for Pitt the next 2 games is to keep turnovers down and not get too far behind. That way it can keep pounding the ball and wear down its opponents, and control the ball late. Easier said than done but doable

    Liked by 1 person

  86. Let’s ask all POV contributors and followers to get off their couches and join the diehards at Heinz and at Fran’s tailgate. The team deserves a special effort to match theirs this year. A crowd of 50,000 plus would go a long way to show them that we care. It has been a long time since as meaningful a game has been played.

    You guys that want an OCS, show that we deserve one. Pittsburgh loves big events, let’s make this one. A meaningful trophy is on the line. Not the SuperBowl or the Stanley Cup, but as meaningful too us.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Wife and I will be there.

      I have also actively recruited 4 others to come to the game…telling them that win or lose it will be an fun experience – possibly the most meaningful CFB game to be played in Pittsburgh in at least a decade…

      …Don’t just drink the kool aid, share it with friends and family! 😉

      H2P

      Liked by 2 people

  87. A big difference to me this year seems to be that after 2 months, other ACC team’s defenses are beat up but ours not as much. BC showed this last night and the 4th quarter runs show this very well. But as mentioned above, we cannot get far behind in a game. H2P

    Like

    1. The BC game will be good film for our players and coaches to watch in prep for the Hokies.

      Another must win to help complete the process in 2018.

      This team will need to win out for me to consider making the trip to Charlotte. Would love to play golf that week in warmer weather and watch Pitt play for a championship.

      One game at a time.

      Hammer the Hokies!

      Like

  88. I’m in if not night game and will drag at least one kid or wife. Wait, maybe not allowed to drag wife or even kids nowadays. 😉

    If all goes well, I will cheer a Saturday afternoon Pitt win and then be golfing somewhere in Mexico Sunday afternoon….yes, with a torn rotator scheduled for Sx on the 20th. EE would be proud.

    Liked by 1 person

  89. After all that’s happened this season, it’s hard to believe that Pitt is in this position. Pitt controls it’s own destiny and, if it can close out this last quarter of the schedule, has a real shot at a top 25 finish. That final point being the most important for the future of the program. A top 25 finish and ACC Championship Game appearance is what Duzz needs to top off this class plus build momentum for next seasons recruiting class. My only concern with this late season success is that Watson may have saved his job. Haha. I still have doubts that this 1977 offense will be enough to finish off the season but who knows. Defenses nowadays are designed to stop the spread, not smash mouth football. The hater in me keeps hiding the Kool-Aid pouches but the homer in me keeps finding them and adding some extra sugar to the mix.

    Liked by 4 people

    1. The ESPN pundits just said running the football in November is what wins championships in CFB.

      Hmmm…no mention of Pitt since Friday night on ESPN. The pundits were talking about Georgia and Bama.

      Like

  90. Thanks John. I think you’re right. Truck it is. Trucks move faster than tanks. So “Tanks” a lot John.

    Thanks also to you Dan, hoping for a mid-afternoon game or evening. You coming to the game Dan? All our rowdy friends could be there.

    Like

  92. ….. and another thing…. Just love it when Jimmie “one finger” and state penn go down in flames like yesterday.

    Like

    1. I hope it’s not the hoopies. Getting embarrassed by them and the pedos in one season would be too much for me…

      Like

  95. Just had a thought. Maybe Borbely’s unit is having more success than at his previous stops because he never had an extra blocker like Aston before

    Like

  96. Couldn’t help watching a few minutes of the Oregon State Fightin’ Beavers game last night. They lost to USC. Was happy to see any Barnes-related team lose.

    Strangely enough, the 2-7 Beavers have some good players — a very quick and shifty tailback and a very good tall WR…

    But what in the world has happened to USC and UCLA? Shows how easy it is to crash a college football program — even in a state full of excellent recruits…

    Go Pitt.

    Like

  98. There you go, perfect time for a kick-off. Hey people, we got to show up for this game and show the recruits the fans care. Otherwise, how can we complain about the lack of recruiting?.. Be There!! ike

    Like

    1. BigB — PGH Sports History is a site my son runs. Though he never went to Pitt, he’s an avid Pitt fan and has come to many of Fran’s tailgates.

      Appreciate your comment on his history posts.

      Go Pitt.

      Like

  100. EE.. the pundits think everyone in the country went to or follows 2 or 3 teams in the whole country …WRONG… I only “turn on” ESPN for teams that interest me… that station is literally a “ turn-off!”

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Davis and Sibley are 215 lbs with Davis at 6’ and Sibley at 5’9”

      Houdini is 190 lbs and the recruits are light – under 185 lbs

      But, we have three FB’s returning that are over 225 lbs each – the biggest is 235 and has the nickname “Truck”.

      H2P!

      Like

  106. Speaking of Pitt FB history, I remember that play where Lousaka Polite burrowed into the end zone for the late winning TD against VT…

    Would love to see a repeat of that situation with George Aston blasting his way in for the winning score!

    Then the Panthers could carry George off the field — if they can lift him. 😊

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 2 people

  108. The Dairy College window is closing on Franklinburger and company. They couldn’t capitalize with the best rb in college the last two years, with a real good supporting cast. Now, Meeechigan might be back and OSU will never drop too far, even if this is Urb’s last year. Everything aligned for them last year and they couldn’t finish. If he doesn’t do something big next year, Franklinburgers seat will get very hot again.

    Liked by 1 person

  109. Major that would be sweet…then Georgie can come post game and carry us around…at least carry Big B back to his hotel.

    Liked by 1 person

  113. Pitt with 10 votes in the coaches poll. Cuse and BC ranked 13 & 14 – both 7-2.

    Another must win this Saturday vs VTech.

    One game at a time in the sprint to win the Coastal.

    H2P!

    Like

  115. @Erie – fix that OOC like syr and bc and you would see pitt at 7-2 and ranked 12th, 13th, 14th or 15th. The Admin needs to learn how to play the game. BC and Syracuse now get it and when the ooc and conference results align, great, National recognition follows.

    Not one mention of BC’s or Syr schedule…..that’s because they all do it!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Pitt beat cuse – not that you didn’t already know that. Northwestern lost to Duke (who Pitt beat) and NW lost to ND by 10 and Pitt lost to the irish by 5. Yet, NW with four times as many votes.

      There is a lot to fix with Pitt football, including the OOC scheduling. But for now, let’s enjoy the ride and see how far it takes us.

      One game at a time – VT has the #60 run D, giving up 177 yards per game (UVa had #22 and Duke #20). I’m guessing with a health Q, Pitt puts up 350 yards rushing and 30 points.

      And YES, the all schedule light, why not Pitt.

      Like

      1. THEY all schedule light. See Bama and Wisconsin as clear examples of high profile teams with weak OOC scheduling.

        Like

  116. I’m not going to harp on negative comments here on out but I have to ask. What would the masses be saying if PITT had played Ohio and Liberty instead of psu and UCF this year? You know, with PITT being 7-2 instead of 5-4. Never mind, I know the answer.

    Like

    1. LOL, they would be saying that is why there is light attendance because the competition is too weak.

      Like

  117. PittofDreams — I’m puzzled by your comment above about RB Daniel Carter, who has Pitt in his final two. You said “FINALLY a good RB who wants to play for Narduzzi “

    Carter is a four-star. Pitt brought in four-star running backs each of the last two years in Davis and Salahuddin (plus Sibley was well regarded). And if you look at Carter’s video, he looks like a clone of those guys — meaning he runs hard and he is fast.

    Pitt is having success with Ollison and Hall, neither of whom is “elusive”, IMHO. I wish Pitt would change their approach on RBs and look for guys with some zig-zag as well as speed… But seems to me that Narduzzi has brought in some well-regarded backs…

    Go Pitt.

    Like

        1. Okay, thanks.

          I watched some of Carter’s highlight video and he looks fast and runs hard, but I didn’t see him juke one tackler… Looked very similar to Mychale Salahuddin to me.

          Hope you’re correct — assuming Carter comes to Pitt…

          Go Pitt.

          Like

    1. Yes, the has to be. Every position is open to competition with this team. That is the only way to get better and rise to be a top 25 team.

      Boy George and Ricky Town will be good back-ups, none the less.

      Like

      1. THERE has to be (competition at QB) – hope to see everyone at the game on Saturday. Weather currently shows 39 degrees and partly cloudy

        Like

  120. Holy heck, Vegas trying to jinx PITT!

    Fran, can I put a reserve in for two of the geriatric chairs for the tailgate. Plan on staying for awhile….

    I now have a direct number for Jim the pedicab entrepreneur. I’m living large and in charge.

    ike

    Like

  122. Ike … loved your comment… kinda of like beating up a couple of gals then taking on the big boys (60’s talk… remember when?)

    Like the UVA blogger said .. PITT was way more physical… we got beat by 3 good programs and in the process learned “ what it takes!!!”

    Liked by 1 person

  123. All these teams got some Top 25 votes….not Pitt though: (Duke? Buffalo?)

    Purdue 14, Buffalo 11, Oregon 9, San Diego State 5, Duke 4, Texas A&M 3, Houston 3, Texas Tech 2

    Like

    1. Local media dislikes Pitt and Nard Dog…and likewise their bigboy national brethren,

      If you don’t get any respect from the local scumbags, you aren’t going to get if from the national scumbags. It’s very simple.

      Like

  124. Remember this same VT team we play Saturday, lost to run heavy GT.

    No need to ffear the hokies, rather we should hammer them with the running attack that they know will be coming 80% of the time.

    Mix in KP to A.Mathews about 4 or 5 times, Ffrench, RaRa and Jacques-Louis with a pass or 2 and you have a recipe for a W.

    Smash mouth FB – Pittsburgh Strong!

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Somewhat….but he’s reading his blocks better (some of which weren’t there last year because no The Animal) and he makes that one cut after the block, usually against the grain. Same with Q. You got an extra excellent blocker in The Animal at the Point of Attack. (didn’t have that last year )
      Makes a YUGE difference.

      Liked by 1 person

  127. This game on Saturday pits 2 teams going in opposite directions IMO. I love PITT’s chances this weekend. HTP.

    Like

  128. @Ike – the masses all say the same thing about the light OOC schedule…..”We’re ranked and relevant”. Recruits love to hear that too.

    Still waiting to hear about any top 20 easy schedule talk, because it only matters if you are in the top 6 going for a playoff berth.

    As far as our RB’s – effort beats talent.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Look at BC to see what a light schedule gets you … it gets you ranked #17 in the country and gets College Gameday to come to your campus to show off your school and program.

      Liked by 1 person

  129. Wife & I are planning on attending the VT game. Is the POV tailgate in the Gold Lot? It’s been a while.

    Like

  130. I really want to join the rest of you and think that the Panthers will own the field against VT. I really do. But my SOP senses will not allow me to do so.

    This so feels like an SOP moment about to befall upon the Pitt fans.

    Please let me be wrong, but everything is there for it to happen…Pat Narduzzi’s lame gameday playcalling, our ability to run vs a team that can’t stop the run, and the sole lead of the coastal division.

    Yep it’s all there for the SOP Gremlin to spank us for ever dreaming of a chance to get thumped 56-20 by Clemson in the ACC playoff.

    🙂

    Dave

    Like

  131. I see right through what you’re doing there Dave. I have a good friend that does the same thing. wink wink nod nod. 😉

    Like

  132. Dave may be right, Ike. I felt the same way at NC. I think that VT may be feeling pretty desperate at this point to get a win. Pitt better have their game face on, same as at UVA.

    Like

  134. BC ran for 219 yards on 49 carries (4.5 ypc), and the week before GT ran for 465 yards on in incredible 78 carries (6 ypc), throwing only ONE pass the entire game. In GT’s 49 -28 win.

    So even though VT knew…GT was going to run and keep running, they couldn’t stop them. And that is probably due to the fact VT has lost several key parts of their defense already and 2 more (a LB & a DT) are questionable with leg/ankle issues for the Pitt game.

    Could be setting up for another YUGE day on the ground for Pitt. Hopefully Q will be at 100%.

    Like

  137. Hey big E, I would just rather PITT win their last three games, take the beating against Clemson and accept an offer from the Military Bowl and get their 9th win with many PITT fans in attendance. I’m guessing that isn’t possible though.

    Like

  138. Anything is possible Ike, even beating Clemscum. We did it two years ago and no one thought it possible except the staff and players.

    Believing you can is half the equation.

    Now the Bowel placement (with regards to the ACC) will be swirling in the toilet for a while before the decision gets flushed out.

    So I’ll take the one game at a time approach and try not to look ahead. Beat who you play this week. The Hokies are beatable and I’d take the approach that this is a revenge game. Every one yard needed for a 1st down or TD would be gained (and then some), even if it’s 4th down on your own 10 yard line.

    This Oline is battle tested for tough yards when it comes to the run – if the box is stacked with 8 or 9 guys, go skinny post with A.Mathews or Ffrench. It’s worked before and it will work verse a less than normal Hokies D.

    Just one man’s opinion.

    Liked by 2 people

  139. Off to play Birdsfoot Golf Course with my cousin Tom today. Pitt gear as always will be prominently displayed…as it should be. 😎
    Need to get me a nice WUPs hat for Christmas.

    Liked by 1 person

  140. Oh how I hate, Brother Ike is correct. In case of rain our backup spot is in the ground floor of Red Garage.
    Looking like no rain so far.
    Welcome to the party!

    Liked by 1 person

  141. I will try to convince Mrs. JoeKnew that tailgating can be fun. Will be good to see you guys, and finally meet Ike. Should be interesting game and three game stretch. It’s always been like Lucy holding the ball for Charlie Brown, just once I’d like to see that ball sail through the uprights.

    Like

  142. Reed , we need one more rule on here:

    NO Politics
    No religion (except in times of needed
    NO LOOKING AHEAD !!!

    One play at a time…One gmae at a time !!!

    GET FOCUSED POVERTs !!!
    H2P and WUPsum

    Like

  143. Two overlooked factors for the PITT – Va. Tech game: Senior Day & Bill Hargrove bobble head giveaway.

    Really wish I could be at Heinz this Saturday.

    Liked by 1 person

  144. Signs for a win over VT are not good right now. Pitt doesn’t play well when favored. VT is desperate for a win. All the bowl talk is distracting. Narduzzi needs to keep their motivation up and heads straight.

    Like

  145. And remember — only the first 30,000 get a bobblehead!! 😊

    If you pull a string, the bobblehead should say “LOOSE FOOTBALL! And the Panthers have it!”

    Go Pitt!

    Like

    1. … and then you hear Pat Bostic in the background saying, “hold on Billy I think they ruled his knee was down”… 🙂

      Like

  146. Senior Day is huge — we’ve got a ton of seniors on this team who deserve an ovation.

    Led by George Aston, but there are a great group of seniors who have all given all they have for Pitt.

    Go Pitt.

    Like

  148. Stanford would be a good match-up for Pitt. No, not guaranteeing a win but they have a traditional offense that Pitt is much better in defending (as opposed to a spread).

    But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. SOP calls for us to wet the bed this weekend. Hopefully the team is focused on this game and not the balance of the year like we are.

    Like

  149. Agree with those saying we should NOT look ahead. Every game is winnable and with every game, Pitt has a chance to lose. This team is NOT a well oiled machine and they are very inconsistent.

    Let’s not get ahead of ourselves – let’s enjoy the Billy Hillgrove Bobble Head and Senior Day – one game at a time please.

    Beat VT…

    H2P!

    Liked by 1 person

  150. This team does seem more focused than past teams. They know this game is THE GAME! Plus they won after a bye week and when they were a road underdog. A slow change that I hope continues to rotate.

    Like

  151. Three games left. How does Pitt finish?

    5-7
    6-6
    7-5
    8-4

    History would tell us that Pitt will not go the easy route and win the next two to clinch the Coastal.

    This next game is huge for the fan base. I meaningful home game. One that counts in the standings toward a possible division championship. Also, they become bowl eligible.

    When will the lack of throwing bite Pitt in the ass? If ever?

    I am going to be negative and say they finish 6-6. That is entirely based on their inconsistency and history. Plus they rarely win when I predict them to do so, LOL. I hope I am wrong and they run the table in the last three games.

    Like

  152. Don’t know if a MMQB is coming out, so here’s some quick input…

    GOOD:
    UVA’s pregame ceremony recognizing the shootings in Pittsburgh.
    UVA students painting the Beta Bridge in Charlottesville with “Our Hearts are with PIttsburgh”
    Road win against a ranked opponent!
    Run-blocking by the OL. I think its fair to say they have exceeded most people’s expectations.
    Darrin Hall’s exploitation of the holes created by the line and his speed after getting into space
    5 sacks by the defense, Hendrix getting credit for half of them
    Turnout by Pitt fans given the weather
    Friends of POV tailgate – pre and postgame
    GoreTex rainwear and canopy tents!
    Pitt inexplicably in 1st place in the Coastal with a big game coming up this weekend.

    BAD:
    Struggles in the passing game continue, both with Pickett and the receivers.

    UGLY:
    Weather before the game and in the early part.

    SPECIAL RECOGNITION:
    Narduzzi goes for it on 4th and 1 at their own 10 in the 2nd qtr. Gutsy, but calculated call based on film study. Even though the series stalled later, it signaled that Pitt was playing to win the game.

    Liked by 2 people

  154. Pitt just CANNOT get behind and rely on the passing game for a comeback. The deep ball is just not there. No catches by fFrench or Lopes against UVA. Don’t want to be negative but worried nonetheless.

    Like

  155. By the way, many are crediting the tough OOC schedule for Pitt’s toughness against UVA. Any second thoughts on OOC scheduling?

    Like

  158. We can still win the coastal if we lose to VT. VT would have to lose at home to MIAMI or VA and we would have to win at WF and Miami..

    But that has to many ifs.

    OCC needs to lighten up or we will rarely reach the top 25

    Like

  159. I agree the tough OOC schedule SHOULD benefit this team down the stretch. They aren’t going to play against teams better than PSU, ND and UCF.

    That being said, if it does not translate into wins, what is the point? Good coaches get their teams to peak at the right time and get better as the season progresses. Goes for any sport.

    This team has enough talent to win the Coastal. If they don’t it is because of the coaching and X’s and O’s.

    Like

    1. Psux isn’t that good, 3 losses, could have been 4 very easily as they lucked out against Iowa and Indiana had more than a chance to beat them. Not in the same category as undefeated ND or UCF.

      Who have they beaten, App State (another one they could have lost), Kent State(2-7), Illinois (bigjoke bottom feeder), Indiana and Iowa and us.

      We need to stop putting these chokers on the same pedestal as good teams. They suck…as in Psux.

      Pitt would be at least 6-3 with that lame schedule as well.

      Liked by 1 person

  160. No second thoughts here for the time being. That is the point. Have a few winning seasons then readjust the scheduling strategy. Syracuse has won some big games and now ranked #13 with an OOC schedule that is silly it’s so easy.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Cuse will ALWAYS get the benefit of their media influence, with so many alums in Sports media.
      Just as they ALWAYS do in bball as well.
      We need to rid Pgh of that cuse jerk on The Fan.

      Like

  161. Well we did get two longs passes in to Ffrench against Duke. I also saw VT come up with 9 and 10 in the box against BC on many plays. So the “potential” for a long pass play succeeding will be there next weekend.

    Like

  162. Not a word about Pitt FB in the PG this morning. But there was a big article. – with a photo of Frankie arguing with an official – lamenting PSu’s loss to Michigan. And their tough battle with Wisconsin coming up (meanwhile Wisky seems like it’s a mess right now — Chryst’s recruits taking over???)

    I kid! I like Paul Chryst and root for him to do well.

    Go Pitt!

    Like

    1. There is a real media bias against Pitt. I looked at whether the Pitt vs UVa game will be repeat televised, like just about every other game that was on ESPN this weekend. I looked up the entire week of programming on ALL THE esPN channels…..and no repeat of the game will be shown.

      Memphis vs East Carolina will be.
      Houston vs SMU will be.
      Boise St. vs BYU will be.
      SDST vs New Mexico will be.
      I could go on and on. But these 4 games involving non-ranked teams from non P5 schools should
      suffice to prove my point.

      Liked by 1 person

  163. I will weigh in on the OOC schedule.

    There was a time in the Big East days (post Miami, VT and Boston College time period) where the home schedule was so unappealing that one could argue that a richer mix of attractive P5 opponents would help sell season tickets. To be honest, I was probably in that group as the likes of Rutgers UConn, South Florida, etc was not going to fill the stadium. And in supporting that, I’d be looking a for one game against an ND, Penn State, WVU along with another “name” opponent like an Iowa for example. The other games should have been MAC level and an FCS program. Thought it was really neat when they brought in Grambling.

    Now that we are in the ACC, I believe the regular season schedule has more appeal and with both VT and Miami in our division, the need to have a strong OOC schedule to sell tickets is not quite the same. Going forward, I believe a slate that includes: 1) a perennial top 15 program, 2) a peer-like school from another conference, 3) a MAC level school and 4) an FCS school would be appropriate.

    Do I think that this year’s slate has helped toughen our kids up? Its possible, but I’d rather see the biggest games of the year be within our own conference. Its how rivalries and traditions develop…hallmarks of good college football.

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Agreed, also an impossible non-con forces us to a razor thin margin in our conference games. I really think 6-6 and a bowl victory would be a successful season.

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  164. Well after listening to Reed’s depressing podcast I need to refocus on this weeks game against VT. It’s being called the biggest PITT game since the Marty Gilyard game in 2009. Here’s hoping for a better outcome.

    Fran’s tailgate is shaping up to being quite epic. The Big Bopper “BigB” will be in town among some others that don’t make it to all the tailgates. Someone needs to swoop by beautiful downtown Columbia Maryland and pick up Reed and haul his ass up to the north shore this weekend. Maybe it will reinvigorate his love for PITT football?

    VT’s QB is young but looks to be a gunslinger and a runner. A little like Perkins last week. He takes some shots so I hope PITT can be physical towards him. ( no I’m playing Olivia) Teams have run the ball well against VT, I look for more of the same with the occasional shot down the field with 8/9 players in the box.

    Not going to let bad news get in the way of a possible PITT season to remember! ike

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  165. Daley update on Saturdays weather forecast:

    Looked at three websites and conclusion is? 40 degrees with little to no chance of rain. One said more sun than the other two. Cool but real football weather. People need to show up for this game… This team is playing their guts out for Pittsburgh/Narduzzi. < i don’t even know what that means. 🙂

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  166. I would offer the ride but life this weekend is very much going to happen as is possible rather than planned.
    Not even known whether I have family takers for the other 3 tickets but will twist arm of at least one. Just got news that 12yo lax games are cancelled so she is an option and I might be able to twist her’s a bit easier.

    Funny thought doing the drive with Reed…me with my sniping immature comments and him with his realism. We’d sure have to have a fight somewhere along the way. I know his weak spot(back) and of course I have no real functional right shoulder(except for Cancun golf the next day and 12oz curls at the all-inclusive – LOL!). My 12 or 17yo would have to capture the epic battle on their iphones. Might go viral at least to this narrow audience…I know there is one out there with 2 old guys fighting in front of some city street.

    I think I can take him if I can overcome his reach and make it to the second round as I still try to run 4 miles about 4 days a week and he only recently quit smoking. What would be the early odds?

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    1. Watch out for that patented “Coast Guard Tactical Maneuver” that Reed is famous for…👊

      I think it starts with Reed yelling “Hey, what’s that behind you!” 😊

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      1. That SOaB, thanks MM, I will be ready…..he probably has other tactics up those LONG sleeves of his too. 🙂

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