Here is an informative post by longtime Pitt POV user Joe Lawerence (aka JoeL), complete with comparative stats and Joe’s Keys to the Game.  Based on what you see below, what do you think Pitt needs to do to bring home a victory?  Also I’ve added some bits and pieces that have come across the wire this morning. 

Ladies and Gents,

I played around with some stats today and compared Pitt’s offense to Miami’s defense, Pitt’s defense to Miami’s offense and also includes some other stats.  I also gave my own thoughts about who has the advantage.  (editor’s note:  It appears Joe is largely assigning advantage based on national rank.  That is why Pitt has the advantage vs what appears to be a very stingy Miami run defense.  However, please feel free to discuss.)

	Pitt	Miami	Advantage
When Pitt has the ball:
Run – Yds/game	247.5	132.9	Pitt
rank	13	34
Pass – Yds/game	155.5	141.7	Miami
rank	118	3
Total – Yds/game	403	274.6	Miami
rank	66	5
Pts per game	30.1	19.5	Miami
rank	62	19
When Miami has the ball:
Run – Yds/game	163.5	188.6	draw
rank	65	49
Pass – Yds/game	241.4	188.6	Miami
rank	87	103
Total – Yds/game	404.9	377.2	draw
rank	79	91
Pts per game	28.1	31.5	draw
rank	75	48
Other stats:
Sacks allowed	22	24	draw
INTs thrown	5	10	Pitt
Sacks made	27	31	draw
INTs made	9	15	Miami
Penalties	77	69	slight edge to Miami
QB rating	132.9	122.9	slight edge to Pitt
Ranking in Special Teams areas:
Punting – Net Yds	100	127	Pitt
Punt returns	71	3	Miami
FG%	52	80	Pitt
KO returns – Yds	7	6	draw
Joe’s Keys to the Game
Start strong – establish an early lead
Run the ball effectively
Use high percentage passes
Avoid turnovers

Bits and Pieces

The Good:  Pitt’s Kenny Pickett Named ACC Quarterback of the Week

Continue reading “Pitt-Miami Thoughts + Bits and Pieces” →