in Pitt Football 137 Words

Syracuse at Pitt Open Game Thread

Pitt steps in in class today. Syracuse has a legitimate NFL talent at safety, and solid ACC level talent across the rest of their defensive backfield. Pitt probably needs to establish the run early to have success, and You’d like to see them execute just as crisply as they did last week. Of course you shouldn’t expect guys to be running free in the defensive backfield this time.

On defense it’s just a matter of how much time Syracuse’s patchwork offensive line can buy DeVito.

Pitt has a chance to make a statement today. 31-6 or better (the UNC score) earns us a modicum of respect. An ugly win by a touchdown or less likely knocks us down a peg. Let’s see what the fellas can do…

Hail to Pitt

Michaelangelo Monteleone

429 thoughts on “Syracuse at Pitt Open Game Thread”

  2. Pitt will make a statement today and the enthusiasm will really reach a fevered peak!!

    Pitt 48
    SU 14

    H2p

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  4. Once again, it’s never the score with me but how PITT got there. Of course a win is paramount but too much can go wrong to judge a book by it’s cover. Still don’t see how PITT is a 20+ favorite. People like to disrespect PITT and at the same time respect them.

    First off, we don’t know who’s playing for either team, secondly Cuse will try and throw quick slants and outs, draw in the safeties and then go over-top. imo, Syracuse will not let DeVito get sack 9 times again. PITT needs to jump out to a lead and maybe that will allow the defense to play their game?

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  7. I hear DeVito got a good nights sleep, didn’t sneak out for drinks and ate his Wheaties this morning. But despite all that, he’s going to get sacked 8 times today and throw three interceptions giving Pitt excellent field position.

    Pitt jumps out to a commanding lead and wins comfortably covering the spread.

    Today’s announced attendance by Heather – 44,790

    Tex

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  8. Luckily, I get the ACCN, but for those who don’t, can you stream the radio broadcast on iheart radio for example? Just a suggestion.

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  9. The run game struggles against D1 competirion but KP and the defense do enough to win. As a bonus, a tight end makes a TD catch.

    Pitt 26
    Cuse 17

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  11. Has anyone been able to watch the Pitt Live stream supposedly on? I can’t get anything to happen except a swirling circle.

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  12. MM – good to hear from you. I hope you and your family are safe and that you are feeling better.

    Peel and orange, prop your feet up and watch the Panthers crush the enemy.

    We should know soon who is NOT playing.

    Let the depth show strong today.

    🤞🏼

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  13. After being sacked 8 times Danny DeVito needs a TAXI to get back to the hotel…and Reverend Jim takes him to the wrong hotel.
    Sorry for the obscure references…haha.

    Liked by 1 person

  15. They interviewed Bryce Hargrove on the pre-game show. He said he never played OL until he got to Pitt. Said Alex Officer helped him to settle in when he was a freshman.

    Later, I thought I heard them say that Officer is a grad assistant working with the OL now. Remember he had to deal with bone cancer…

    Bostick is generally pretty pro Pitt but he was complementing Coach Borbs on the improved OLine recruiting. Hope Pat’s right on this one…

    They also had former Pitt QB John Congemi on — I always found him fun to watch…

    Go Pitt.

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  18. Score depends on who Pitt has available to play (Covid-19 holdouts). If everyone is able to play, I think we win by two touchdowns, say 21-7. If we have some key kids who cannot play we win by a field goal. Not yet a Kool-aid drinker. Hopefully the Panthers prove me wrong.

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  19. Peak @ lair says Krull, Weaver, Camp, Royal(freshman DB) all out last week were suited up for warm ups. Pitt reporting 3 players to miss todays game. Mack, Baldonado are 2 unlikely to play. No surprise on that front from those two.

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    1. Nope. Thought things might be different this year. Especially after last week…

      Let’s give em a couple series to settle in but feels like they might have been reading their own press clippings

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  30. Hmmm. Bad 3rd down 3 yard pass attempt on 3rd and 6? Two formation/motion penalties and bad punt coverage….feels like last year.

    Shake it off

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  32. 3 penalties in 5 minutes. And Whipples famous side line pass for no yards that everybody has seen for the past 14 games on display early. Not good.

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  36. what the hell is wrong with Whipple? These calls are horrible.

    This is not on Duzz – whipple not prepared for this defense and no imagination.

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  44. Pitts offense looks a lot like it did all of last year. The play calling is terrible as it would appear Whipple is afraid to throw at their experienced safeties. And like I posted previously the Syracuse D is really pretty good.

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  52. I’m watching the game on the tv in the corner of the Pitt live broadcast.

    Like Annie, I could not get the Live Broadcast until 31 minutes went by.

    Good settling down TD to Addison.
    A STUD

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  54. Just when I was upset that PITT got off to a rough start I turn onto the POV. The comments like PITT sucks and then the TD turned my frown upside down.

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    1. It was an absolutely beautiful throw. Right on the money to an Addison that had just come open out of his break

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  59. DJ turner has turned into a nice little safety valve for Pickett. Seems like every time there is a broken play he comes up with the ball. 👏👏

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  60. AJ Carter is more of a liability than an asset. He might be good for one or two yards but you think he’s never going to break a long run. I’d use Sibley as a power runner before I’d use A J.—Addison is outstanding.

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  67. Coaches play it safe on third down, settling for a FG and Kessman rewards them with a miss from 37 yards.

    Orange you glad you have Comcast…

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  74. I won’t throw my oranges yet

    As long as Pitt scores a TD on the next possession.

    Beaten by a back-up could be the headline tomorrow

    Ugh!

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    1. On an island And looked like they only rushed 5 so I wonder if safeties were doing what they were supposed to? Hallet was the support on that play

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  76. 1st qtr observations

    Defensively they are stellar, offense coughs up the ball the defense bails them out.

    Offensively they need to stop the running back by committee and go with a feature back and a substitute.

    2nd qtr observations

    The announcers suck and poor coverage on the long TD pass

    It’s going to be a game

    H2p

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  77. Pinnock again beaten on a long pass play. Make the 2nd string QB take it all the way down the field. No safety help is not called for at this stage of the game.

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  78. Plays like that are going to happen every game. The offense can’t play like this with a “NFL” QB. So far, lack of discipline penalties and bad play calling putting the defense in a really bad spot.

    How bout 3 wildcats in a row!!!

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  79. I spent over 40 years selling national radio advertising. The play by play calling of this game is absolutely
    horrendous. I refuse to pay extra for HULU,etc. Comcast is a disgrace….I am not a happy puppy.

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  83. Krull made that clutch catch but man I am so skeptical of his hands after two targets. He bobbled that one, and it should have been easy. Straight up dropped the first.

    He looks like a monster out there though

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  84. How many procedure calls in one half is the record? Pitt is making a run for it. A J needs to sit on the bench.

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  85. I don’t like that crossing route that leads the receiver right out of bounds. Give him time to turn it up field.

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  87. Well at this point I think we know our OL and kicking game stinks lyke a Chinese Pitt face guard.

    I have an orange cocked, loaded and aimed at the TV.

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  91. Great call straight ahead with Pickett over Morrissey Hargrove and Kradel.—-Addison was given a 10 yard cushion on that 3rd down call.

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    1. Looks like that underneath route on the outside has been open several times today. Pickett doing a nice job taking advantage of it. “Football is a game of first downs”. Agree on a good 3rd and goal from the 1 call as well!

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    1. That personal foul should have been against the guy who leveled jaylon bardon while the ball was in the sort

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  107. As I suspected pinnock was supposed to have safety help on that long TD. Just another mistake on a mistake filled afternoon.

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  108. Two terrible teams.

    We will win but please don’t kid yourself.

    No discipline and horrible play calling on offense for Pitt – again. Either Whipple’s a moron or the players aren’t good enough to block or run around below average Syracuse players. You pick.

    Liked by 1 person

  109. You leave that 30 year old aussi that can’t catch to hold.
    Pathetic
    Kenny is really not very good.
    The coaching has been awful.
    The OC and his play calls are hard to understand.
    The defense is solid.

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  111. 1st half observations:

    Horrible clock management to close the half.

    Top it off with another stumbling, bumbling mistake.

    Are the ghosts of SOP creeping into this game?

    The announcers are bad, maybe they are wearing masks and breathing too much of their own CO2 back into their lungs?

    Our offense is poor on execution today, they left 6 points on the table and set the table for a SU FG. I would say the Pitt offense has went out of its way to keep SU in the game.

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  113. Typical Narduzzi coached team.
    Undisciplined and uninspired. Is there anyone who didn’t see this coming. Oh wait…. that would be most of you!

    My wife just suggested that the Pitt Wives start a blog for support as most hubbies are screaming at their phones!

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  114. Pitt has reverted back to playing like it did last year. No running game except for V Davis on occasion. There was a reason D Carter came in as the second RB over AJ.—-The Pitt FG special teams are playing poorly. That last FG may have been blocked if not for the errant snap.—-Anybody take the 22 points in Syracuse? If Pitt doesn’t expand the lead into the 4th Q they can easily lose this game on another long pass on our DB’s.

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  115. Halftime stats:

    Pitt 20, Syracuse 3.

    Oh wait just kidding, that’s the “without dumb mistakes” score

    Real score: Pitt 14, Syracuse 10.

    Pitt 16 first downs. Cuse 5
    Pitt 5-9 on third down
    Pitt 194 total yards
    Cuse 119 (69 on one pass play)
    Pickett 16-22, 6.0 ypp, 1 td, 131 yds
    63 rushing yards
    24 art, 2.6 yds per rush but Pickett with a couple bad tfl
    Penalties 3-15. They settled down over the 1st quarter
    Possession even at about 13 mins each

    AJ Davis 9 for 37. Actually not a bad average
    D Carter – 2 for 15. I think his injury really negatively impacted our running game
    Sibley – 1 for 13. Looked really good out of wildcat. Surprised he’s not been in there with Pickett more
    V Davis – 6 for 9. And that inclides a 15 yard scamper at the end of q2
    Pickett 4 for -11. He’s doing too much tucking and running and not enough throwing away.

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  116. Would anybody please explain to me why AJ would attempt to catch 5yards behind the line of scrimmage that he was bobbling at the time? Bat the dam thing down and play the next down.

    Liked by 1 person

  117. Disappointing, too many mistakes.

    Narduzzi mentions it wasn’t Pinnock’s fault on the long td pass.

    PITT needs to throw the ball down field.

    Defense playing well in spite of bad field position.

    Again, disappointed in the offense, I find it offensive.

    Rick save the oranges for your victory juice.

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  118. They only thing that could put the Same Old Icing on the cake would be if they come out flat after halftime.

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  119. If this team is to be different from other Duzz teams, halftime adjustments will be made and Pitt will route cuse.

    Oranges up…

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  123. Yes, the first half was disappointing with the mistakes, but it was still pretty dominant by Pitt. The offense had three solid drives, not counting the last one that was really just aided by penalties. And the defense is simply dominant. I will take sustained drives vs. one big play every day.

    Of course as I type this, Pitt goes 3-and-out to start the 2nd half. Ugh!

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    1. 5 players in the backfield 4th time. When they do it five times streamers will drop from the ceiling.

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  125. Cuse has speed both on O and D.
    Giving the disorganized Panthers fits. Now the punt team err, 5th penalty for 5 players in backfield

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  135. Krull looks like a total goof,,,gets practically picked by his own player,,,maybe it was the other guy’s fault but can’t they see each other

    even on that marginal PI, he gets ONE hand on the ball
    no hands,,,,shocking, I know

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  136. Watch the O line closely. They are getting killed physically one on one. Did NOT happem to NC last week. By 2nd half they were blowing cuse off the ball.

    Same old same old.

    Again, we will win against a really bad team but our pre-season 8th place finish is about right. Can never be good without an offensive line – and we still don’t have one.

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  139. We don’t have a QB with pro potential and SU is getting screwed by the referees, probably because their the northernmost school today.

    Again our offense leaves points on the table and turns the ball over.

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  142. Pitt will be very lucky to win today!

    Duzz and Whipple getting their asses kicked. But… the players love him!

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    1. I think we will win but again our defense plays stellar our offense hasn’t improved from last season.

      Defense will keep us in games but our offense tends to give them away.

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  151. Does Koolaid spoil so easily and fast.

    Vinegar never goes bad. Or bourbon.

    I was the most optimist guy/gal here today. And I still am. And no I’m not drinking.

    Liked by 1 person

  159. Gimmie Jared Wayne against a zone any day of the week. Really nice series and good pass blocking too. Confidence being restored!!!

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  160. Wayne is better than Mack at WR. Maybe he’s not as fast but he knows how to get open on almost all pass plays.

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    1. I don’t think my post made it earlier but the knock on Krull is he has all the intangibles for a TE but he has Roberto Duran disease

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  171. Is it me or is 21 their poorest performing RB?

    Also Krull has all the ingredients and intangibles but he has Roberto Duran disease.

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  177. probably the Pickett ball pointing the wrong direction for him

    which way is that?

    Krull might not be able to grab it off a platter

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    1. Nah – It’s the ACC bias against Northern teams. When two northern teams play, the further north team gets screwed.

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    2. Ben Sauls – 2020 recruit. Play in the Peay game. Left footed. In on at least one attempt. Chrstdolu holder, backup long snapper fumbled snap.

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  189. Kessman isn’t hitting from the right side of the field. So what does Pitt do, play to the right side on third down.

    Give me a break.

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  190. If Syracuse has a halfway decent OL this game would be a lot closer.

    Wait personal foul for “leaping?”

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  191. I would be pissed if I took Pitt in this game -21. Should be up 20 in spite of this terrible play (just with field goals)

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  192. The announcers are harping on the SU defense is keeping them in the game but I propose the following:

    The Pitt offense and special teams are keeping Syracuse in the game due to a total lack of execution.

    Liked by 3 people

  196. Dam it! Looks like PITT is coaching their receivers to drop passes again this year. That strategy just boggles my mind.

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    1. Iek, IF it were only that

      you can’t even have Krull on the field if you have half a brain, no way are they figuring this out just now

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  197. Syracuse has no offense and Pitt keeps giving them better field position.One mistake by our offense and Syracuse is back in the game.

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  204. Pitt & Whipple determined to make this a close game. Of course Pickett can’t throw downfield, so there’s that little problem.

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  206. I told you guys Krull would be do nothing. All look no substance.

    Looks like the Syracuse +21.5 Is a winner. Easiest money you could make.

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    1. I ate their once. Nice place. Been to nick and sams…my fav. Also chamberlains, capital grille, and Perry’s. All on the company dime. Del Friscos in forth Worth was excellent. Making steak on the grill tonight actually. U and I need to meet up one day.

      I’m flying back to da burg for the domer game. Love that campus. Hate the fans.

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  208. So…is whipple a complete moron OR is KP not as good as his headlines and Whip doesn’t trust him and therefore only dials up short slants and safe outs?

    I don’t care which one it is, but it is nauseating.

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  212. Noticed that some cuse players have messages on jerseys in place of their name.

    Maybe the panthers could wear messages that inspire their play. Like “I can catch” or “Don’t drop it”

    Liked by 6 people

  213. Dan – the team has never had any penatly discipline under Narduzzi. When you have average players and below average backups, there are no consequences for screwing up – particularly on offense or special teams.

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      1. I like Carter number 4?

        He only had 2 carries today for decent yardage but he might have turned an ankle.

        He definitely was hurt sitting on the sidelines.

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  219. Any bets on Narduzzi’a first statement? “A win is a win”.

    Should have been 30-3, which would have earned us some respect. Instead we probably do not even belong in this extra special top 25

    Liked by 1 person

    1. How about “we might have been looking forward to Louisville” or “we didn’t want to show much offensively”

      Narduzzi really hasn’t raised the bar for the program, he will probably be a 7/8 win coach with a low of 5/6 year in and year out.

      Defense is really good offense is pedestrian.

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      1. A lot of POV commenters say the same thing – ceiling 8 wins – bottom 5 wins

        Never to satisfy this Pitt fan…

        Glad we won – don’t deserve to be in the top 25 – note to Jerry D – “it is ok to not vote for Pitt this week“.

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  222. Someone ought to tell Babers that you can’t save any of your time outs for next week.—-Anyone think the Pitt players were on social media all last week reading about how good they were. If Pitt faced any other ACC teams offense other than Syracuse they would have lost this game.

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  224. Here’s my first comment Mike, An ugly win is still a win.

    Since when does a PITT win feel lousy?

    Three botched field goals if made the score would have been 30-10.

    Syracuse had ONE play the whole game.

    Terrible game for PITT none the less but they still dominated the game. When you can make that many mistakes and still win you’re doing something right.

    At least wait until PITT loses before all the bitching. Maybe next week?

    Liked by 1 person

    1. was that bitching?

      more just observing and pointing out stuff

      Peay set ME up for a fall and Pitt came through,,,,unfortunately led by the O and the K’s

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  225. Hey guys. I must ask. Who TF cares about respect from the acc or college football national as a whole? We won and we move on with an unblemished record. Certainly we’ve seen that we have things to correct. I don’t get the obsession with rankings. It’s not like we’re going to win the nc. Ease up and have a drink and enjoy the rest of the day.

    Liked by 5 people

  226. Pitt made a statement today.

    “We are a poorly coached team with a good defense, no running game after Carter, no TEs, average QB, cursed kicker, no discipline, and little inspiration. In other words SOP, SODuzz! “

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    1. The team was terrible in 2 phases of the 3 phases of the game plus coaching BUT they did win.
      For that, I must say that this is NOT SOP.

      Liked by 1 person

  229. You sound like a kid who had a great Christmas but didn’t get the exact toy he wanted. Let me take a second and cry for you.

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  230. so so (same old same old) Meanwhile, the US Open as always is interesting

    lack of focus always a possibility after an easy win, especially against an opponent that you should beat. I’m not saying Pitt will win, but I’m expecting a much better effort next week

    Liked by 1 person

  231. Hey Dan, some of the I told you so guys said that PITT dropped the ball by not hiring coach Babers. I know one was on here today telling us all that he told us all about Krull. I’m not I told you guy so much or rear-view mirror guy but I am a PITT being 2-0 guy. I’ll own up to my lousy prognostications. My early prediction for next week is a PITT loss.

    BTW, PITT dominated this game that the great Babers decided to put his three timeouts in his pocket and run back home and live to play another game. Pre-Narduzzi PITT was losing games like this one left and right. Lumpy lost to YSU! I see it doesn’t take much to spoil you guys but it takes takes a sledgehammer to make you all happy.

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      1. Actually that wasn’t my point Mark. Yeah Krull looked very disappointing today and I’m not sure he will be the answer at TE. I think Wright should get a more enhanced roll on the playing field. More to my point is that Babers was on many folks wish list as a PITT head coach. Narduzzi has proven that thought wrong.

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    2. It’s the pity Pitt rationale. Your reasoning says 7 or 8 wins is OK because we didn’t win just 5 or 6 games.

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      1. PITT’s 2-0 so far and that’s my rationale. I don’t panic over a PITT win like some do. Hell some were already crying in their beer in the first quarter. Winners don’t do that, glad to see the PITT players didn’t.

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  232. Anybody want to see Kessman trot out on the field next week for another FG try? I’ll bet he’ll be having nightmares just thinking about his poor FG kicking. His head might never be screwed on right for many a game going forward.

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    1. I want a different holder.
      The guy can’t catch. He blows. I bet some of the holds are bad that he even manages to get down.
      I would put the 30 year old punter on a boat home.

      Liked by 3 people

  233. Great win.

    Syracuse actually has a decent defense, the offense just doesn’t give them a breather.

    Excellent defense! Offense was ok, run game below average. First game against actual competition will have us prepared for next week!

    H2P

    Liked by 2 people

  234. Since the Big10 has announced the start of their season any chance we will drop out of the top 25 – replaced by a 0-0 Big school……..

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    1. We should drop out of the top 25 just on the performance Pitt had on the field today. We looked a lot like the 8th ranked ACC team many predicted for us prior to the start of the season

      Liked by 2 people

      1. If Cincy is ranked #13, and didn’t beat Austin Pea as convincingly as we did(55-20 and the Mercy Rule not applied)…..Pitt should still be in. Also UNC is ranked #12 and only led Cuse 10-6 after 3 quarters.

        Liked by 2 people

  235. Good news we’ve got some good talent. But Narduzzi’s lack of attention on detail, penalties, brain farts, and the Trib banner headline “Despite mistakes…” 7-5 or 8-4 tops if that good. Burned-out with the fat Italian.

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  236. Always happy with a W, but ….

    The O-line and tight end drops haven’t been upgraded. I hope Krull is benched but accountability hasn’t been in the football program since 1981.

    The mental mistakes and penalties at the wrong time were a killer today. Leaping and Alexander’s penalty. Why does this stuff keep happening?

    Powell should be on the hot seat for not having a stud running back by now and with the special teams. Our punter does not look good either. Kessman is so erratic.

    Shout out to the defense again, but time to buckle up. BC and Georgia Tech appeared to have upgraded at quarterback and both are on the road. Louisville and its offense up next. I wonder how the defense will play versus better speed and talent?

    Liked by 1 person

  237. Pitt plays at BC next week right. BC having no trouble with duke today. I see pitt losing this one unless the curse of SOP is exorcised. Anyone know a good priest?

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      1. Next week Louisville. Following week NC State at Pitt. BC three weeks from today up in Bean town.

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  238. I’m not giving up on this team so easily. I remember some very good Pitt teams struggling to beat the Orange over the years…

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 3 people

  239. Just back from watching game at brother in laws, some thoughts
    1) This was like watching two bad high school teams
    2) Looks a lot like last year, when open receivers KP can’t hit em, and when he does they drop it— groundhogs day.
    3) 4-5 too many men in backfield, 3 bungles on fg, my my.
    4) Whip really was clueless on how to attack this d, didn’t he look at film? SOW( same old Whip) 3 TD pass needing 6.
    5) Oline including JM got boat raced. BAD
    6) Only positive was Dino was much worse than the Duzz. What in the world was HE doing?

    Liked by 1 person

  241. Guess my other comment didn’t post, but Danielson was just awful,again. They had to pull him early. Kid is pretty bad. Ya.I know, I just don’t like him, right?

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  243. Just got done watching game on DVR delay. Thought we would have a 21-7 game but unfortunately Kessman has forgot how to kick. We continue to have tight ends (and others) who cannot catch the ball. Sloppy game penalty wise. Hopefully this is a wake up call before the Louisville game next week.

    Do not get upset when we drop out of the top 25, we do not deserve to be in it.

    Only positive was the defense which continues to play well. Still giving up the home run ball, this time to the end zone but other than that they were the reason we won the game.

    Liked by 3 people

  244. Raising my glass for a win. Certainly, we have deficiencies, but it’s good to have a couple of tune-ups. Now I must go make lasagna. If my kids eat it, it’s a win, no matter how ugly.

    Liked by 1 person

  245. If you guys don’t know me, I used to comment on the blather and I wrote the Optimist, Pessimist, or Realist article here a couple years back.

    Liked by 3 people

        1. I graduated in 93. Spent time in tower A. Chas was part of my tailgate posse during the 90’s. Would love to meet you. I’m coming in for the Domer game.

          Beware a Texan bearing gifts.

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    1. BC is my sleeper team in the ACC. I guArentee a win over Pitt atBC.
      On the way to 4-7 for Pitt.

      Just watched film of today. O line for Pitt was manhandled

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  248. Pickett’s stats from last year’s Cuse game were pretty similar to this years game. 232 yds passing & 2 TD’s in 2019, but no interceptions. And 215 yds passing & 2 TD’s this year. But he threw a horrible pick this year and it took him (& Whipple) 3 more attempts and 7 more Completions to gain less yardage this year……Which means, we’re not seeing any improvement at all. Regression…. actually.

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  250. so, what i read on the halftime stat was v davis…5 carries for -6 yards……lol! So for 83.33% of his carries he got -1 yard per. Awesome!

    Somebody asked what nard was writing in his notebook…probably thought of a new non-injury report, or perhaps thought of a new way to get heather and him extended some more….

    For the recommendation of putting krull in front of a jugs machine all week, the teem is in a bubble. Going to one of those establishments would not be a good idea.

    i didn’t watch. kids come before sports.

    You guys watched the wrong game. It was the JV team. Pitt’s varsity football team is awesome! They are the best. The coaching was outstanding. Heather and Narduzzi, the best coach in the world, should get extended again. Pitt put an outstanding product on the field. I am honored that Pitt hasnt received the death penalty for recruiting violations of all those four and five stars, way so thankful. Instead, the death penalty has been shifted to its fans.

    Seriously, we have some really solid players, just not at the qb position, or rb position, or TE, or OL, or placekicker, or punter. Everything else looks good! The crowd looked about the same as last years second home game.

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    1. I’ve seen enough of both Davis’s to know….they ain’t it. Would have preferred some punishing type runs, that Pitt is known for, in the 2nd half. And the only back on the 4 deep that can do that is…..Todd Sibley.
      V Davis avg’d 2.9 ypc
      A Davis avg’d 3.4 ypc
      Sibley avg’d 8.5 ypc (albeit in limited carries)

      And since Pickett can’t throw downfield, you better be able to run it. Or you have last year all over again.

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I’ll ship Narduzzi some chili flavored popcorn from burleson. Would love to be the fly on the wall

      Tex – not a fan of fly swatters.

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  254. Someone forgot to tell Whipple you’re only allowed four men in the backfield.

    This is a badly coached offensive team. And Matt Canada is next door with the Steelers.

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  255. After 2 games Pitt’s defense has given up a total of 52 yards on 56 rushing carries. Average of 33 inches per carry!

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    2. Almost as impressive is that Pitt’s defense gave up a net total of only 1 yard combined passing and rushing in the 4th quarter against an ACC opponent.

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  259. Krull has Roberto Duran disease, hands of stone.

    He can get open but unfortunately can’t catch.

    He didn’t impress in Gainesville and won’t as a Panther.

    This team will go as far as the defense can cover up for the offenses mistakes.

    @danh72 if they go 4-7 that means 2-7 over the next 9? Willing to make a slight bet?

    This team has issues but they are not a total dumpster fire.

    Liked by 1 person

  260. Offensive line the same dumpster fire as last year.
    AJ Davis brings nothing to the party.
    Krull didn’t make it as a baseball star. Didn’t excel at UF (only because he was behind the next Tony Gonzalez). But he’s bound to be just what we needed at Pitt…NOT.
    Underrated Kenny is underrated for a reason.
    And the drops, missed alignments and bone-headed penalties are simply an extension of last years discipline failures.

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  262. Louisville looks really fast. Now next week is a big test. We will see if PITT is ready for prime time or not and I’m not sure they are? Can’t wait to see the game stats from today.

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  264. I don’t see any easy games the rest of the way.
    I just don’t get Whipple’s play calling or his use of personnel.
    Running Back and wide receiver by committee never gets anyone into the flow of the game.
    What is up with Sibley and the Wildcat? Sad that Carter got dinged.
    Simplify the offense to what works and no more backward passes.
    No wonder there are so many mistakes, it is way more complex than it needs to be.
    I sure hope Krull isn’t as bad as he looked today.
    Is Tipton hurt again or still hurt? Receivers still not coming back for the ball when Kenny gets flushed.

    The defense better learn how to score some points if they want to win some games.

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    1. Regarding Tipton – Pitt held 3 players out yesterday per PSN for COVID-19 related issues –

      “Cornerback Hunter Sellers, defensive end Emmanuel Belgrave and wide receiver Tre Tipton were among the players that did not appear to be in attendance for the team’s warmups.“

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  266. A thought on the coaches fault for undisciplined play on the field. I feel it’s more on the players, Look at Patrick Jones the II and so far (knock on wood) Paris Ford. PJ was a penalty about to happen the past two years. Same as Ford. They look a lot better disciplined this year, again, knock on wood. Now Pat has some work to do on some other players. This is college football not the NFL….. btw, watching the game tonight and guess what….. 5 men in the backfield penalty. Must be a point of emphasis this year?

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  267. Ike I disagree. If this game was a one off, I could see your argument but it’s been Groundhog Day every game under Narduzzi. His and his staff’s lack of attention to detail is glaring. The question to me is “can This teams talent overcome the coaching?”

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  268. Did Danny Smith (horrendous Stiller Special teams coach) suddenly take over at Pitt?

    If Pitt plays this way next week, Louisville will beat us by 30!!

    Sorry for the rants. I can’t drink anymore. Normally I’d beat toasted and asleep by now.

    Liked by 1 person

  271. Watching the L’Ville game and their defense stinks. Was hoping for a win from them to make next week’s game a more publicized game.

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  272. Question for the wizards………… Will there be an Army vs Navy game this year? What a shame if there isn’t!

    Dan, it’s always ok to disagree with me. I disagree with you all the time…. 🙂 Seriously though, when you went on a trip and the road was bumpy but you got there in spite of the road and your family arrived safely, I’m guessing you were happy despite the rough trip?

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  274. Were ranked, undefeated and just won by double digits and people here think it’s the end of the world. This looks like the pedo’s board…

    Liked by 1 person

  276. So nice of the ACC to give us Louisville, State and Clemson instead of NC, Duke, Virginia. Pitt is still way behind the times on offense and the lack of speed and playmakers is going to bite us in the behind trying to keep up. The defense will keep us in games but will give up big plays like today because the corners are on an island in Narduzzi’s defense.

    My 7-4 prediction looks dicey after seeing MIA-LOU tonight.

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  277. Louisville’s RB Hawkins is going to give us trouble. He’s shifty.

    Lots of penalties on Miami tonight, but they are scoring points.

    How about Navy coming back from being down 24-0 to win 27-24. Imagine Navy’s POV board at half-time of that game…

    Go Pitt.

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  278. Miami solves QB and kicking problems with transfers, plus added that defensive end from UCLA.

    A lot of talk on here about how if you’re bringing in transfers you’re failing to develop your own players. Those three guys are going to help Miami win a lot of games this season.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Pitt‘s incoming transfers through the portal are TE Krull, back-up RT K.Wilson, back-up QB Yellen and back-up WR Turner.

      Did any of the back-ups play today? I think I heard Wilson was in the game when my TV went out.

      We won today and by the looks of the ville’s beat down from miami tonight, Pitt should beat the cards as their D is weaker than our O performs. Our D is better than their speedy O.

      One game at a time…

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Rick – you missed his point on developing players (& team chemistry) which some commenters make.

        I am of the opinion that transfers patch holes in needed areas. Clemson doesn’t have holes & didn’t add any transfers this year. (Btw, North Carolina did not add any transfers but I believe they could have used some help on defense.) IMO, players are smart enough to realize holes that need filled. The players held back nay be upset but they have two options – get better or transfer out. Pitt may see the transfer option used next year with one of our QB’s,

        Miami actually added 3 other transfers this year for a total of 5. ( the kid from UCLA actually transferred last season & sat out a year.) The results of the Miami transfers did include players entering the portal.

        I don’t know your opinions on transfers but from what you said transfers are good if they only start & are good.

        D. J. Turner did play: 5 catches for 48 yards. I believe he is a good add. Krull, so far, is disappointing. Wilson is a backup. Personally, he wouldn’t be my preferred choice as an add.

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        1. Richard – my point was only to show our transfers in aren’t going to necessarily help us win a lot of games this year, lyke was pointed out about miami.

          I’ll agree on Turner, his early stats are of an average contributor. With Mack out with the surgery, Turner is a veteran who is contributing.

          I personally did not see any of his catches unless his number was changed and/or they happened after I threw the Orange at my TV.

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          1. Rick – I understand. I only watched the 1’st half before I fell asleep.

            Not all transfers are instant starters or even capable backups. I just checked some Louisville stats. L’ville signed 3 transfers. One is a grad WR – hasn’t caught a pass. One is a grad OL man – have no clue about him. The 3’rd was a DB. His stats after 2 games are 3 solo tackles & 1 pass defended. A a true freshman at Liberty (2019 season), he played in all 13 games & started 5.

            Not all transfers work out for every team. Except for the DB (who could be a good one in the future) hole patching or depth is what you want. It worked out for Miami. But Miami also signed 2 OL men. I believe one of them started for Miami but I am pretty sure he committed 2 penalties on consecutive plays against L’ville – a procedure followed by a holding. Not much data on individual penalties or OL men in general unless PFF (Mikes toy) track them.

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  279. Turner actually did well. I think I’ll pray for rain, their speed is really pretty good, it’s just that Miami looks great. Louisville is much like the old Miami teams, if they get on a roll you have major problems. Our Oline can dissolve like rice paper in water, and do you really know which offense will show up (or be called)?
    Ever been to the track? Like running with $1200 claimers the first game then moving up to allowance company this week. Next week will be another move up in class. They better have their heads on straight.
    Hey Ike, that family road trip. You better believe I’m happy to get the family home safe. I’m just discussed that I blew the tranny and the converter got a hole in it.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. But mission accomplished JoeK. I know you’re being a bit sarcastic but it’s more about where you got as to how you got there.

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  280. I make Louisville a 4.5 pt favorite over Pitt next week. Their speed on offense is blinding. Pitt cannot run with them. Pray for rain….sleet would even be better. They will take Addison away.
    Need a much above average performance from Pickett and the O line to win.

    Liked by 2 people

  281. It’s a shallow argument these days Nate… Maybe years ago it would hold water but not these days. If you don’t bring in transfers you fall way behind.

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  282. If PITT successfully executes the 3 field-goal attempts and they win 30-10………… whats the problem? So are we mad at the whole team or just the special teams? It’s the road you chose to travel. Seems like road trips are a theme of mine this week. Beep Beep!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Ike – this headline from PSN last night says it all –

      Pitt Head Coach Pat Narduzzi ‘Disappointed’ Despite Win over Syracuse

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  283. The Pitt D will not be able to keep Louisville from putting up a fair amount of points next week. They are very fast and just a couple of missed tackles and they will take it to the house.—-On the offense who the hell knows whether Pitt can actually take advantage of a less than decent power 5 defense next week. Pitt needs to take a chance with Izzy at RB to see if we can upgrade at that position. A J is a liability with a zero to very little chance of him ever making a splash play at RB. Unfortunately the Carter injury may have been the biggest blow for Pitt’s running game this year. And what can I say about our dismal TE play this year once again. I agree with Tex the best comment of the day “Krull looks like Tarzen and plays like ……” Krull and A J should both be benched sooner rather than later. You might give Krull one more week but with A J I’ve seen enough to find a place for him at the end of the bench for the remainder of this season.

    Liked by 1 person

  284. Seems to me the offensive line will be the difference this year. We have enough at wr, qb, and rb. Still unsure about krull.

    Yesterday was a very discouraging performance by the o line though. I’m holding out hope they struggled against a unique 3-3-5 defense and that Syracuse was playing up for us on d. But…

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    1. Go point about playing the 3-3-5. I like defenses like that where you don’t know who the rushers will be. Tough to prepare for.

      Our Oline has enough trouble when they know who they will be blocking…

      Miami has some great looking athletes, but their secondary, while big hitters, didn’t cover all that well against Louisville. Hoping we can do better…

      Go Pitt.

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