290 thoughts on “Louisville at Pitt Postgame Recap”

  3. I’m happy

    but like I said, throwing up koolaid due to the O,,,and then the D serves up another pitcher 🙂

    ah, I’ll have another,,,,and maybe a shot or two

    keep the nitro close
    (kidding, don’t take any meds,,,,,yet)

    Liked by 1 person

  4. I only needed one towel today and unbelievably Pitt got away with another 3 point second half to get this win. Really a tremendous defense especially their front 4. A great win against a very explosive Louisville offense.

    Like

  7. The differences between the offense and defense are OBVIOUS!!

    Coaching/Recruiting vs 0 0 0 0/ 0 0 0 0. Shameful!! Lyke it is time to pay for quality coaches.

    Like

  9. Turns out Syracuse may not be as bad as most made them out to be?

    I thought Louisville had too much speed, wonder it Narduzzi revisits that thought?

    Is PITT defense that much better than Miami’s?

    Whipple, Whipple, Whipple, you know the coach? The one who is 3-0.

    Turns out Narduzzi can coach defense and Bates wasn’t a horrible hire.

    Let’s not even get into recruiting….

    Liked by 2 people

      3. When will you go away we don’t need people like you on here I just hope you never have a family member with some kind of mental health issue you may regret that comment one day

        Liked by 1 person

      4. Seriously, Jay. Anyone who has a friend or family member on here who has an intellectual disability is totally offended by your immaturity. Get a life, brother. Mike, this nonsense cannot be tolerated.

        Like

  10. I will gladly eat crow. The defense might be the best it’s been in 35+ years. The offense is still bad but did just enough. I remain unsold in this offense but I am forced to believe in this team now because the defense is THAT good. I could only imagine if they had Twyman

    Like

  12. Hats off to Coach Bates and Coach Partridge! Awesome stuff…👍

    Big “3” Day — 3 Field Goals; 3 Interceptions; No. 3 had an INT, and, most importantly, we won by 3.

    Go Pitt.

    Like

  13. Very impressive showing by our defense. They basically shutdown an explosive Louisville offense. After getting burnt by the first long run they stuffed the Louisville run game. A very good win but would not say it is the best since 13-9. Win over Clemson down in Death Valley ranks above this. On to NC State next week. Looking forward to watching Lady Panthers on ACCDN is a bit revenge their volleyball loss to Syracuse.

    Like

  14. I guess I was more nervous than I thought. I am exhausted.

    Syracuse/Ga Tech was my commercial game. Cuse looking good. GT is not. Miami pounds FSU.

    Like

  17. This stats MM posted are quite telling. Louisville completed a total of 9 passes. NINE pass completions
    by a ranked team.

    And Hawkins gained 78 yards, with a long of 75 yards! Where’s Commander Reed!

    And you guys are being way too tough on KP.. Your bias is showing, IMHO. KP made some clutch throws today…and he did some nice running. Be interesting to see how he grades out.

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I don’t think so MM. KP was way to yippy today and had some time. Made some bad decisions including the INT.

      Of course, 2 of his best throws were dropped by Turner and Addison, either of which ices the game.

      Like

    2. Pickett sucks.. Watch film like a coach and not a fan. Guys open all day. He seems like a good kid. Just not a top 30 QB.

      Like

    3. John: Kenny has to be better for us to get to where we want to be. I’ve been a big supporter of his. But he misses a lot of throws, and 4 years later doesn’t show patience in the pocket. He was pretty average today.

      Like

      1. missingwlat— I don’t disagree on KP. His play is very disappointing at times and at other times he makes key plays. I thought he’d be more consistently good by now.

        Go Pitt.

        Liked by 1 person

    1. We lose to UM by 20. Pickett is garbage. Our OL still can’t open holes- Miami tore UL line apart in the running game.

      Like

      1. Not really. 30 attempts for 160. Looks good unless you see that 75yds was on one play for a TD. So on the other 29 averaged only 2.93 yds/attp. That is not tearing apart a DLine.

        Like

      2. Agreed. Our offense is not good. Whipple is a joke. Maybe Narduzzi likes his subservience. There’s a problem somewhere. 3 losses because of offense: Miami, Clemson, Notre Dame.

        Like

  20. Another “it wasn’t pretty” performance, but who cares? I’m just looking forward to that new ranking with a 1 in it instead of a 2.

    Like

        1. Pitt is a top 20 team now. But it’s always how you finish. But this was a big win no doubt. Could set them up for a 9 win season…narduzzis ceiling.

          Tex whose a straight shooter and never shy

          Like

  22. Mack was big today. Smart play on the TD continuation and made a great catch for a first down on a pass thrown pretty far behind him(at least I think it was for a 1st down).

    Like

  23. If Twyman stays we wouldn’t know how good Kancey is. That dude is a bad ass

    That’s not nerves Richard, we missed our naps.. 🙂

    Message for some of you out there. It’s ok to admit PITT and Narduzzi have a pretty good team this year.

    Is continuity a good thing?

    Oh the hand wringing if PITT goes 4-0. I’ve already read where it was expected. Cutting off a good start at the pass.

    Hope that young QB is OK.

    PITT linebackers are very under-rated, especially Bright.

    Just enjoying a good PITT start and hoping it continues.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. From the Louisville Courier Journal after the Pitt Louisville game today:

      “Here are three things we learned in Louisville’s loss:

      Pittsburgh’s defensive line might be the best in the ACC, including Clemson. The Panthers tallied seven sacks and 12 tackles for a loss and completely took away the Louisville running game.”

      https://www.courier-journal.com/story/sports/college/louisville/2020/09/26/louisville-football-three-things-we-learned-loss-pittsburgh/3547183001/

      Liked by 2 people

    1. What Kessman did today was very impressive. This is not dissimilar to a golfer getting a case of the shanks. Kessman had to fix his mechanics and just as importantly gain back his confidence to let it fly.

      He not only made that first one, but it was right down the middle.

      Both kickers were outstanding today.

      Go Pitt.

      Liked by 1 person

  26. Boy it’s great to win one of these type of games.

    I can’t harp on KP – I thought he was pretty good today. O-line is the weak point of the team (well, besides TE). Offense has to be clever and opportunistic as they are not going to sustain any run game. Receivers are improved but there’s not tons of separation. Could Pickett be better? Of course but he the issues on offense are way more than him.

    Liked by 1 person

  27. In the 4th Quarter, with the game on the line, Pitt possessed the ball for 11 minutes; the ‘Ville had the ball for a mere 4 minutes…

    Pitt had 7 sacks plus 5 other tackles-for-losses.

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

  28. Great job by the defense today! But, to be fair… there were a lot of overthrows and underthrows by the Louisville QB. More concerning is that their receivers were open on those passes. I am hoping that the poor throws were due to the pressure/panic created by the front 7- or that Louisville’s 4.1 speed was too much for their QB to judge 🙂

    Krull was indeed on sideline using crutches- looked like his left ankle wrapped up. That being the case- and DJ Turner changing to number 7- makes me wonder if it is a season ending injury. Perhaps the number switch was a one time thing. Either way, who cares? Pitt wins, Pitt wins, Pitt wins!!!

    Like

    1. 37% of Louisville’s plays today went for negative yardage. And this, according to Louisville followers, is a great offense. Must mean that Pitt’s defense is an elite defense.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Absolutely! But does a better QB complete those throws? More work to do, for sure. But I am loving this defense suffocating the opposition! A HUGE H2P today! Cannot wait to see how this Defense – and team- continues to develop the rest of the year. Also, given the defensive youth on this team and incoming recruits, I cannot help but to be excited to watch them in seasons to come!

        Liked by 1 person

  29. So, Kansas State, who lost to Arkansas State in their opener, comes back from being 21 down to beat No. 3 Oklahoma.

    The Oklahoma POV must be interesting right now…

    Crazy upsets are what’s so great about college football…

    Go Pitt.

    Like

      1. Mike: See Jay’s post above which uses the word “retarded”. This alone should get him banned forever. Totally offensive and disrespectful to the mental health community. We don’t need his type here.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. Thanks Eric, I proudly say I have a grandson I love dearly who is challenged. If any of you had a chance to meet him you would immediately fall in love with him. I’ve helped raise a mixed family for 30 years and aware of all the challenges and I’m still not any type of expert, I’m still learning. I wish people would keep learning despite their ignorance’s unlike my grandson who strives to learn daily. He’s way ahead of some less informed.

          Like

        2. Thanks for the heads up WLAT.

          JayfromTowerA, two of your fellow commenters have spoken publicly, and several more have spoken privately. This, combined with you earlier refusal to adhere to the longstanding POV rules of no personal attacks (I deleted several of your posts directed at me, and I even let one stand in hopes that you would simmer down), leave me no choice. You are banned indefinitely from commenting on the Pitt POV.

          Liked by 4 people

  31. Unofficially,

    KP – 22/38 (60.5%) for 220 yds. 2 td’s, 1 int, YPA 5..79, YPC 9.57, QBR (Passing efficiency rating) of 121.3
    compared to Cuse game 25/36 (69.4%} – 215 yds., 2/1, 5.97, 8.60, QBR of 132.4

    So those who say KP left a lot on the table, Yes, yes he did.

    Like

  33. Just deserts Doc, if you keep taking two steps forward you will eventually get there. Even when you have to take one backward step every now and again.

    Jay, imo, Mike would never ever block you from commenting. Lot’s of posters suffer with word press. Keep trying, I would be interested in what you have to say.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Ike, Jay has had his day. He has been blocked by MM. (See above post). He’ll have to re-spawn as JoyceBrackenridge using a new email I guess.

      Like

  34. The coaches on the Offensive side of the ball are out of their element trying to coach at the D1 level.
    That whole set of coaches needs to go — a let the new OC hire his assistants.

    Once again, this is getting to be a broken record, the other team makes adjustments to their defense at halftime, Pitt no adjustments to the offense at halftime. One FG total in the 2nd half. Once again.

    The Pitt defense is an absolute pleasure to watch. That whole crew is bad ass.

    Like

  36. As for Cunningham, Unofficially – using same format:
    9/21 (42.9%) – 107yds., 1/3, 5.10ypa, 11.89ypc, QBR – 72.8
    Against Miami:
    26/36 (72.7%) – 307, 3/1 8.53, 11.81, QBR – 165.8

    Great job by the Pitt D.

    Liked by 1 person

  37. I also am not a big KP fan, but I’ll repost what I posted earlier. Hard to believe, but…

    Highest-graded passers on throws 10+ yards downfield (power five)

    Trevor Lawrence
    Kenny Pickett
    Jarret Doege
    Malik Cunningham

    Liked by 1 person

  38. —Seemed to me that Chase Pine started to get more involved today in the second half. Hoping that caries over into future games…

    —Nice to see the old geezer, Tre Tipton, get on the field and get a catch. 👍

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

  39. glad some idiot ghosts have returned

    retarded? impressive and convincing critique

    hope they will be forced to continue to suffer through ineptitude to 4-0 next week

    H2P!!!
    H2theD!!!
    H2kickinggame!!!

    Liked by 2 people

  40. Those stats are based on what KP did against Austin Peay. Recalibrate with Syracuse and Louisville. Its drastically different.

    Like

    1. Do your own stats if you think I am wrong, I only used P5 opponents teams for comparisons, I left out Austin Peay for Pitt & WKU for L’ville. I actually say “Compared to Cuse” & “against Miami”.

      Liked by 2 people

  41. maybe not so glad some ghosts have returned

    retarXed? impressive and convincing critique

    hope they will be forced to continue to suffer through ineptitude to 4-0 next week

    H2P!!!
    H2theD!!!
    H2kickinggame!!!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. huh, hung up first so edited the R word

      I agree KP was bad today but had 2 great passes to Turner at a critical time dropped and then Addison which went through his hands at the end

      I thought he had the yips and the o-line wasn’t spectacular, but by far not the problem. RB’s had some chances and KP had many plays with time but was inaccurate way too often

      Like

  42. PittPT.. I’m happy to respectfully discuss stats and production with you whenever you’d like to do so.

    Unfortunately, personal issues infect this site.

    Pitt is 3-0 and I am VERY happy about that. I’ll leave it at that- as some people can’t understand the basics of football.

    Like

  43. PittPT.. I’m happy to respectfully discuss stats and production with you whenever you’d like to do so.

    Unfortunately, personal issues infect this site.

    Pitt is 3-0 and I am VERY happy about that. I’ll leave it at that- as some people can’t understand the basics of football.

    Like

  45. criticism of the offense is fair. OC Whipple reminds me of 2015 OC Chaney who couldn’t wait for the run to falter a bit so he could start throwing.

    Like

  46. Jay you ignorant slut . We have a great defense and an average offense that played just well enough to win.

    Better to diss KP after a loss.
    Louisville defense is not chopped liver. Give the guy a break, he is our guy.

    Liked by 1 person

  47. and to be fair, Addison made 2 other catches that KP didn’t deserve to have caught

    maybe one that should have been intercepted as I don’t have any idea how it got through

    Liked by 1 person

  49. The uniforms were awesome as an occasional change up. Hopefully Pitt keeps it at one alternative. Not 20 like Oregon.

    Like

    1. Kept thinking I was watching Army. Never got used to them today. And I like being able to read the names on the back, which was tough today…

      Go Pitt

      Like

  52. “Jay you ignorant slut”.. love the SNL reference!

    Just be sure you’d say it in person and not just online.

    Like

  53. The Good: Pitts defense and kicking game
    The Bad: A good offense would have easily hung 40 on Louisville
    The Ugly: Goes without saying

    Pitt could be undefeated and ranked outside the top 10 when they play the Domers.

    Like

  55. OK guys, take a breath. Here’s what I learned:
    1) We were a 3 point favorite and won by 3.
    2) This d is really, really good.
    3) Long run occurred on first play Danielson was in the game.
    4) Pickett does not stink, he’s just not very good. QB rating of 46.8 won’t get it done very many times, and after 4 ( excuse me 3+ ) years he still has no touch
    5) As I said before the game, I’m not thrilled when we go weakness vs weakness ( our o vs their d)
    6) I’m thrilled with the win. Negative guys will point to the o and how bad the Ville is. Positives will say ya man 3-0 bring on Clemson.
    7) So far, so good.

    Liked by 1 person

  57. Oh, I forgot one, and I apologize if someone already pointed it out, but the Ville didn’t look as fast this week when they played on grass. Fast, but not as fast.

    Like

    2. I have it on good authority that the grass at Heinz was cut half an inch higher this week.

      Tex who pitches a ⛺️ on the grassy knoll

      Like

  58. What was Kenny’s national ranking last year?
    90th? 99th?
    What as it the year before?
    About the same.
    Why does anyone think it’ll be any different once the dust settles this year?

    Like

  61. any final comments on the garbage fumble call on the KP forward pass?

    Miss State just had their qb try to pull down ball and it slips forward out of his hand. Called a fumble then gets overturned on video review. WAS DEFINITELY A FUMBLE, KP’s WAS NOT!!!

    I don’t think there were a ton of bad call against Pitt but that one was terrible!

    Liked by 1 person

          1. Down by 15 with 3 minutes left.

            Pitt could use their offense and they can use Pitts D. Imagine if the teams paired up. Good God.

            Like

  63. Always a good day when Pitt wins……and the Hoopies lose.

    3-0 baby ! (ditch the uni’s, they were a colorless dud on TV as were L-ville’s)

    Liked by 1 person

  64. Back from golf…Major, played a scramble with 36 teams and won the dang thing. Found out Pitt won after the outing.
    Been reading the comments for the last hour.
    You folks are an entertaining bunch. Haha.
    H2P

    Liked by 1 person

  65. KJ Costello who threw for 105 yards in Stanford’s 14-13 win over Pitt in the Sun Bowl just threw for > 600 yards in Miss St upset of LSU 44-34 in Death Valley. Luv college FB

    Liked by 1 person

    1. He has mike leach as coach. The man is an offensive genius. Truly a genius. One of the most innovative coaches ever. Too many springs lose though to ever get a pro job.

      Like

      1. If you ever want a great read sign up for the free trial of the athletic and read their “Washington State QB’s Dish on Mike Leach” article

        Like

  66. The unis looked a lot better on the field than they did in the press release.
    Our O-line gave KP lots of time but I assume the receivers were covered too well and nipped his passing yards. His running was very aggressive. I don’t remember any slides.
    Somewhere I read that the goal of our D was to keep their qb from passing to anyone but his primary receiver. Seems like that worked.

    Like

  67. From ESPN

    POLL IMPLICATIONS

    Louisville: The Cardinals likely will drop out of the polls. (Duh!)

    Pitt: Even with teams from conferences currently not playing being allowed into the polls this week, expect the Panthers to at least stay at 21 or perhaps even rise a bit.

    Like

  69. I’m watching NC State against VT and VT is crushing them despite having 20 players out with Covid related issues. 17-0 with 4 minutes remaining in the 1st qtr.

    Like

  73. Was trying to watch 4 games. Miami – FSU, VT – NC State, Tx. State – BC, & Gamecocks Tenn, Down to Tx Stae – BC, & Gamecocks – Tenn.

    BC will come back. Announcer just pronounced Jurkovec – Jerk o vick

    Liked by 1 person

      2. Those targeting calls were ridiculous. ACC refs helped BC with those to add on 15 yards. Those announcers were terrible, too. Sounded like BC grads.

        Texas State has a cool little stadium that should host a bowl game. It is just 30 minutes south of Austin, so travelers can stay there and drive down for the game.

        Like

        1. Agree on penalties. I thought Tx. State was closer to San Antonio but both cities are cool. Good thing you told me that. I was running out of time to learn something new every day.

          Liked by 1 person

  74. One might think everyone on the POV would be happy after a big PITT win? ike, wrong again.

    Great…. the defense….. duh, this unit is not good they are great, hope they keep it up.

    Bad…… Pickett didn’t throw for 500 yards.

    Ugly…….SOP fans.

    Enjoy today, tomorrow may bring a slap up your head.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Fans are only SOP if they do little to nothing and accept the status quo. Fans can comment, donate, vote with their wallet, attend or not, or do crazy things like me…Panther Hollow Partnership.

      Pitt covered. That’s it. The O is bad. That needs to change or you won’t be seeing these wins regardless how good the D is.

      But I go to bed happy. Pitt and Texas won. Hoopies lost. And penn state lost about $10 million by not playing today.

      Liked by 1 person

    2. I think most folks are very happy with this win here, Ike.

      It seems most would like to approach the victory with some tempered enthusiasm, however, given the offensive woes. And I can’t blame them. In fact, I’m one of them!

      h2p!

      Like

  75. I disliked the uniforms, loved the win.

    We take care of my wife’s mentally challenged sister. I abhor the use of the word “retarded” Jason!

    No way we beat Miami. That QB they got from Houston is a difference maker. Don’t sleep on BC.

    I don’t care if we stumbled backward into today’s win. It was huge.
    I have more of a problem with Whipple than Pickett.

    Due to health reasons, I cannot make golf next week. I’m battling serious diabetes. I will miss all of you!

    H2P enjoy the big win.

    Liked by 5 people

  76. PSA: JayFromTowerA has been banned from the POV. He has repeatedly shown a disregard for the “no personal attacks” rule today. I’ve deleted several derogatory comments directed at me (and I even let one stand out of compassion In hopes that he would come around and add to the football conversation). I also put up with a private email tirade where he repeatedly berated me. His personal attack against another user (besides me) was the final straw.

    I very much appreciate all the users who abide by the rules and keep the POV a civil and sports-oriented discussion. Keep it up ladies and gentlemen!

    Liked by 9 people

    2. You played this situation with appropriate warning and feedback, MM. I think your decision was fair, even if I wasn’t particularly offended by Jay. (There comes a point when one has to consider the commenter’s objective and I didn’t see anything in Jay’s comments or response to indicate that he was open to discussion or friendly debate — I gathered he was here to get a rise out of his fellow Pitt alum and otherwise well intentioned fans.)

      Good move, really, Mike. No one can say your not fair. Thanks for your steady leadership as the site operator @POV.

      Loads of respect for the job you do here.
      —Neil

      Liked by 1 person

  78. PSN answers a question some had on POV early in the week –

    “The win was the first time a ranked Pitt team defeated a ranked opponent since 2003, when Pitt upset Virginia Tech at Heinz Field.”

    Liked by 1 person

    3. Boy do I remember that game like it was yesterday. Cannot believe that was seventeen years ago and I’m now 50y/o!

      *Thanks for the reminder EE!

      Like

  79. Long time reader, first time poster. I didn’t see any issues with the O Line when Izzy was running. I’m not a fan of Vincent Davis as he just seems to go down way to easy when contact is made. He’s too light and inconsistent to be the starting back. I think Izzy and Carter are the backs that can keep moving the sticks. I hope we see more of them as the season progresses.

    I wonder if Twyman is having regrets. No guarantees on where he’ll be picked in the draft. Playing and having a good season would have cemented him in the first round. Kancey does look good.

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Thanks for posting Jeff. All good points. Hope it’s the first of many. Imo Izzy was really the only guy who could make his own yards. He knocked some guys back a couple of times. Seemed to have better vision than Vince for the most part too. For a guy the size of Vince Davis he needs to be making a lot more guys miss.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Funny how perceptions differ after watching a football game. I’d swear that Vincent Davis broke more tackles on that one run yesterday than the rest of the backs combined. But I did think Vincent left yards out there by the decisions he made once he got thru the line.

        I thought Vincent had two bad plays – one was the misplay of the wildcat snap; the other was when he appeared to miss his block on a blitzer which resulted in a sack.

        Need to watch the game again, but I thought Vincent’s running was pretty good in this game. Though I would like to see more of the bigger backs – Carter, Izzy, and Sibley…

        Go Pitt.

        Like

  81. Thanks, Mike for keeping this board from becoming like nearly every other social media site. Where even the most innocuous post devolves into mean-spirited name calling or political hype within the first few posts.
    POV is not like that and I appreciate your efforts to keep it civil.

    Like

    1. Football takes an enormous commitment. The BoT isn’t fully on board unfortunately, so what is Covert saying to those clowns to help change their tune since he is on the Board? Nothing since he got his uniform retired, which never should have been done, along with May, Fitzgerald, Goldberg and Ditka’s. Those numbers should still be in circulation, no offense to them.

      Like

  83. Still major issues on offense. The OL is just not good, especially at RT. The running backs all have issues except for Izzy. None of them can break tackles, and given most are 4 stars it might be the coaching. And Pickett is not getting better, he has average skills and probably has peaked, unfortunately.

    Like

    1. Running backs are 4-stars in HS because they are the fastest guy on the field. Once they get to college, for the vast majority of them that is no longer the case.

      Pitt needs to change the model of the RBs they recruit, IMHO, but I admit that I was spoiled by Dion, Ray, and Shady (not to mention Curtis.). Now TD was an exception – he was still the fastest guy in the field in college…

      Go Pitt.

      Like

  84. Good to get the win.

    Random thoughts:

    Nice to see Pitt contain Louisville’s speedy QB.

    Speaking of speed, Louisville RB Hawkins is fast. He only really hurt us on one play though.

    Seven sacks is really nice. Three interceptions is nice as well.

    V Davis is quick and moves well, but is easy to bring down.

    Watching Miami. Their offense is solid. Getting King was a good move. Good running and passing game. Athletic defense.

    We need to score more points.

    I like the way our schedule has ramped up – playing a little better team each week.

    I agree with others. Kenny is faster this year.

    Addison has good hands and is fun to watch.

    Louisville blitzed a bit and we picked up the blitz reasonably well.

    I don’t remember seeing Wendall Davis today. I saw Pine.

    Kicking game was better today.

    Enjoy the win Enjoy football.

    Liked by 1 person

  85. It’s now not a trend but a bona fide personality flaw, Pitt’s O coaches are incapable of making the changes necessary at halftime to keep an offense on track. It’s a shame and will cost Pitt a game sooner than later. Two seasons of the same exact 2nd half performances and there is no doubt, it’s a REAL problem. Whipple’s seat should be getting warmer!!

    Nardog and Pitt are swimming upstream and doing it successfully. namely, winning in D1 college football with defense. I appreciate it’s a bit of hyperbole, but this defense reminds me a bit of the Steel Curtain of the 70’s. Built on a dominating D-line, supported by fast, hard-hitting LBs.

    If Kancey stays healthy he could be reminding us all of AD in another year or two. Pitt’s DE’s when Jones and Weaver are on the field are the best I’ve seen this year on any team.

    Congrats to K-man for exorcising his FG kicking demons, he’s warming up for his repeat role of Clemson killer from 51 yards.

    I pose this question, KP will be allowed to come back again next year due to the Covid rule, would Pitt want him back or would it be time to move on and see what Beville, Yellen, et. al. can do?

    Liked by 1 person

  86. Like last week, just got back from kids hockey after 7 hours of driving today! Where we were at, the non-wearing of masks was at about 75%, to 25% with. I didn’t watch the game so don”t have much to comment upon. I did predict a Pitt victory this week, which keeps my streak alive. I did watch highlights tonight and I don’t think the players will like the uni’s as it was really hard to read the names on the jerseys. Maybe the OL voted for the uni’s based on that.

    Pitt had 12 TFL’s and surprisingly, Lew Isvil, had 11 TFL’s against us. Our qb had a qbr ranking of like 42 and the opposing qb had a qbr in the low 30’s. Lew Vill was not known for a strong defense at all.

    Two interesting points. Pitt will be in the high teens when the rankings come out, but we will start to see the other leagues getting their teams in the rankings. I noticed the coaches poll is already adding in b14 teams without playing a game. Will be a weird year for rankings generally. Secondly, I am going to agree with Nardoozski. Pitt starts strong this year and noone gets to see it. Not understanding this decision at all. In Steeler stadium, it seems real easy and safe to put 15k-20k fans in the stands. I am hearing 25% of capacity is a good starting number.

    Like

  87. FYI, both Wendall Davis and Krull were on crutches yesterday. Hallett was also out for this game. Not sure we will be seeing either WD or Krull anytime soon.—-Watch out for the young Pitt DB’s Battle and Royal for the remainder of the season.—-A great win but watching the Pitt offense play is very difficult. What’s the chances of Pitt scoring that touchdown had Louisville not given up on tackling Mack on his touchdown? My guess is we would have probably got Kessman’s 4th FG instead of the TD.

    Liked by 1 person

  88. FYI, for those Kool Aid drinkers that cannot get enough the ACC Network is playing a repeat of the PITT Louisville game at 8am and 5:30pm today. Enjoy!!!

    Like

  89. All games for Pitt can be difficult with the less than stellar offense we trot out each and every week to say the least. But Pitt has 4 difficult to very difficult games ahead IMO. Those being ND, Miami, VT and Clemson. And Pitt certainly can’t look past any of their other games, NS State, BC, Ga Tech and Fla State. Any of those can end up being a loss given what we have witnessed with some other college games this weekend.

    Like

  90. OT, Jay Emailed me and apologized for his comment. Of course I accepted his apology immediately. Jay is not a bad guy and a lot like the rest of us, having a bad day is a real bitch. Football is a microcosm of life, mistakes abound and surrounds us at every corner. Let’s not beat the guy up too much. Sometimes we find our plates just too full.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Jay is always having a bad day when a Narduzzi Pitt team wins a game. Looking for reasons to get rid of Narduzzi I think takes priority with some POV posters IMO.

      Liked by 6 people

      1. The only way you get rid of Narduzzi is by getting rid of his boss. I can only hope she goes back to the Big 10?soon.

        Like

      2. MM is in charge, but kudos to Ike for gracefully accepting an apology. The world would be much better if more people reacted to such things like Ike just did.

        Like

        1. No kudos for me Kman, it’s what any reasonable adult would do. If you saw the email sent to me you would even be more impressed with me. My very existence was threatened. People have bad days. I choose to go through.

          Like

    2. Ike – that is quite gentlemanly of you, which is not surprising.

      Apologies are hollow after repeated offenses. Adults should be accountable for their actions. Jay’s a big boy and needs to do time.

      Like

  91. Good – the D gave a near flawless effort.
    The kickers redeemed themselves (for a day).
    Izzy got some meaningful carries.
    T.Mack is back with a solid & smart performance.
    Beating a ranked team while being ranked for the 1st time since 2003.
    The 3rd sting TE Moraga looked lyke a player (and no drops).

    Bad – seven trips inside the opposing 35-yard line, once intercepted, turned the ball over another time and settled for three field goals to go along with two touchdowns.

    Ugly – Gov. Wolf’s decision to allow no fans in the stands, not even moms & dads. Will that change when psucks starts their season? My money is on YES.

    After a nice round of golf (1st 18 on my home course in 15 months), Mrs. Erie and I sat and watched the final 3 qty’s while enjoying “red” hot wings – the win sure did feel great!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. qtrs not qty’s (spell check sure does help sometimes, but other times it makes us look bad)

      The conservative nature of this coaching staff needs to find a solid (and healthy) RB tandem and a RT to make this a magical season. I think it may be too late for the latter (RT)…

      I personally would try Zubovic @ RT – (hometown guy, Pittsburgh name – can’t be worse than what we are getting now).

      I did not see where LB Cam Bright had any tackles yesterday – was he used as a spy on the card’s QB as he seemed to be on TV around the tackle scene a lot? If that was the case, brilliant call by coach Bates and therefore Cam was the reason for the 7 sacks against one of the top 2020 QB performers to date.

      Like

  93. Pitt’s women VB sadly fell to the Orange again last night, this time being dominated by cuse, dropping all three sets to move to 0-2 to start the season.

    Tex – coach Fischer needs more of your money…

    Like

    1. I might hold off on writing him another one. Not sure what’s going on. More money to men’s soccer then I guess.

      Like

  94. Dan, sorry you can’t make golf Friday at Willowbrook…take good care.

    Impressed with the D…not so much with the O.
    Losing faith in Mr Whipple.

    Like

    1. with you on the fading hope with Whipple

      last series:
      -with 4+ minutes first runs risky jet sweep, which Turner breaks fortunately but then he steps out of bounds which cost some clock. Good idea giving Turner to immediately redeem after the drop on the perfectly thrown ball the prior series which led to the punt
      -next 2 run plays are slow developing zone block run plays where backside pursuit gets to Carter UNBLOCKED because Louisville has everyone in the box and the RB must pause looking for a press then cut to get upfield. need to be quick hitters with our slower starting and never punishing RB’s in that situation
      -then 30 yard sideline bomb to Addison? gutsy but with the inaccurate game KP was having, ???

      and it really says a lot that he still has KP come over to the sidelines for every play
      does any OC in D1 football do that? my kid’s youth league fb had 60+ plays at the start of the season and over 90 at the season end that were called in with a number from the sidelines and that was age 11, 12 and 13

      Like

  96. Pitt D had seven sacks and allowed 223 yards, 75 on one touchdown run.

    The turtle offense appeared to resurface in the 4th qtr yesterday causing the Pitt D to have to win the game.

    Our O has to be better than that going forward. Two interesting games in front of the Panthers to help open up the offensive game plan.

    H2P!

    Like

  97. I am not as down on KP and the offense as most. Would I like to see them score more points, of course.
    But there are some givens, the O-line is not loaded with talent the way the defensive line is. Yesterday the starting tackle went down early. I don’t remember anyone mentioning that and its effect on the play of the offense.

    Kenny played his average game, no more no less. It is what it is, some good some not so good, so why all the bashing. Is it frustrating that we settled for three field goals, of course, but very positive that Kessman made them, especially after last week.

    As far as the running game, I thought it was marginally better and came through when needed down the stretch. Davis ran hard and it looks like Izzy is going to be good, he was fifth on the depth chart so I am sure he hasn’t had as many reps and isn’t as knowledgeable about the playbook. Not sure why Sibley isn’t getting any carries.

    As far as being conservative, it wasn’t when KP through the long pass to Addison late in the game which would have iced it if Addison makes the catch, which was on the money. Earlier Turner also didn’t make the catch to keep the drive going, also on the money.

    The interception was a little off target but tipped. The fumble came on a great defensive play and was controversial.

    I still don’t get the wildcat and hope it is scratched for good. It takes a special player to run it and a better offensive line, it is a distraction and takes away from normal reps of the running game.

    Addison is really, really good, he makes our average receiving core really good. Moraga looked OK.

    I also thought the pass blocking was a little better, there were plays when KP had plenty of time and the receivers were covered or he just didn’t see them. Also give KP credit for his legs, they are an asset.

    KP will have better and worse games and the defense will not always completely shut down the other guys.
    That’s football, there is another team trying to make plays too. The Louisville defense isn’t their strength either, but they are not without some talented guys.

    Number 21 vs. 24, it went down to the last play, quintessential Pitt Football.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I thought the running game was better as well. I saw several times where the offensive line missed an assignment which led to a Tfl Which led to us getting behind the sticks and having to throw. Carter Warren blocked nobody twice that I saw where his assigned guy was tackling our rb in the backfield. Have to stay ahead of the sticks

      Like

    2. We seem to be on the same wavelength, GC. We had several nice runs yesterday – AJ, Vincent, and Izzy all had good moments.

      As Tvax posted above – it was that darn “backside pursuit” that really caused us problems. Not an uncommon occurrence! 😊

      Actually, the way that Kenny Pickett out-maneuvered the Louisville tacklers should make the RBs feel bad… Though they did break some tackles…

      Go Pitt.

      Like

  98. It’s interesting that in a win over a top 25 team, we are all still a bit disappointed and somewhat frustrated…mainly about the offense. That right there shows the program is moving in the right direction-not satisfied. If we can improve this offense and eliminate the 1-2defensive breakdowns a game we can beat anybody….except Clemson which would take some luck. We should be able to score At least 30 a game and that would probably be good enough with this defense.

    Hail to Pitt!

    Liked by 3 people

  99. The ball to Addison on the last series was right on the money but the DB popped him simultaneously on the run. A very difficult catch to hold onto when your hit like that.—–Here is some numbers to hang onto. Louisville rushing for 41 yards in 29 plays if you subtract the one 75 yard TD run. Then subtract the 31 yard run on the fake punt and you have Louisville rushing for a grand total of 10 yards on 28 other plays.

    Like

    2. VA Tech was missing 23 players. Nc state is worse than cuse. And BC is no better than Louisville. Pitt should be favored in all games until the Domers.

      Spread will probably be around 7. Less if fans are allowed back. 25 percent capacity makes sense for proper distancing. But Saw too many people yesterday without masks at games.

      Like I said, pitt will be undefeated after the ND game and then the ACC will cancel the season due to outbreaks.

      Ike will declare Pitt national champions. I’m fine with that.

      Like

      1. if that should happen, I would be elated and join ike. Should ND win their next 2 games (FSU & Louisville), they will have the longest winning streak in the NCAA (LSU having lost yesterday). Also, it should also be noted that since Pitt’s bye isn’t until the final week, they will have the best overall record of any P5 team (or at least be tied).

        Thus, I declare Pitt at least co-champs, and rightful owner of their 10th title.

        Like

        1. major omission … if Pitt is undefeated after beating Miami and ND in back to back weeks, they deserve the title as much as anyone

          Like

          1. At that point, pitt should just declare themselves BCS eligible. And claim without evidence that the remaining games are rigged, the refs are part of a mass conference conspiracy and hoax, and the ACC leaders in Raleigh are fake news.

            Liked by 1 person

    1. When the Pedos begin, some fans will be allowed. The Nitters have all the bureaucrats in their pockets.

      Narduzzi is right about one thing. Players family and some students/staff should be allowed to attend if health protocols are followed like mask wearing and distancing from strangers.

      Liked by 1 person

  102. Would I like PITT to score more TD’s, yes but when a team has a defense like PITT does, the offense’s first job is to have a game plan and make play calls that doesn’t give the game away. That strategy seems to be working. We complain about field goals and yada yada but PITT won by a field goal. Someone had to get PITT into that range?

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Mike Leach always was an offensive guru. In 2008, his Tex Tech was 10-0, averaging nearly 50 ppg before losing to Oklahoma 65-21. He would make the Cotton Bowl however, losing to Ole Miss 47-34. Finished 11-2. He would be shown the door a year later despite being Tx Tech’s all time winningest coach for off-the-field issues.

      He was mostly a success at Wash St over the last 7 years (55-47) …. won 11 games in ’18 but went 6-7 last year

      Like

  104. Re: Mississippi State vs. LSU, excerpted from the Washington Post:

    LSU took a visit from Mississippi State to open the SEC season at last, then saw Mike Leach’s backs and receivers dart about the premises in a gobsmacking manner.

    And the numbers did pinball upward through the Bulldogs’ ­44-34 win over the No. 6 Tigers in the late September heat. One wide receiver (Osirus Mitchell) caught seven passes for 183 yards and two touchdowns. An outstanding back (Kylin Hill) caught eight for 158 and a whiplash 75-yard touchdown. Another wide receiver, JaVonta Payton, helped himself to six for 122, and a tight end, Austin Williams, had seven for 57 and a touchdown.

    They ran around at Leach’s diabolical angles, and all of it added up and added up to a big whoa of 623 passing yards on 36 completions for quarterback K.J. Costello, formerly of Stanford on some of the same days Leach worked at Washington State.

    Like

    2. If Cook could write like that I’d read his stuff. Reminds me of how the old-time sportswriters used to write…

      Extra credit for “gobsmacking,” “pinball,” and “diabolical angles.”

      Go Pitt.

      Liked by 2 people

  105. Cannot believe our coaches missed the fake punt play by Louisville. Were they asleep or not paying attention? On to NCST. H2P

    Like

  106. I did not see the volleyball game, was out to dinner with family. I will say that with the number of new starters Pitt has, it usually takes time to get in sync with each other. A good volleyball team moving through plays is a beautiful thing to watch. It does not happen overnight. I read where they tried a new libero yesterday. I noticed (even last year) that Pitt does not have the height that many others do. I think that hurts them a lot- getting hands on a rocket attack to slow it up is essential for the back line to make a play on the ball. Although I am disappointed in their start, this shortened season really means nothing- and basically can be used as an exhibition season to get the players meaningful reps. So I am not panicking about the vb team yet. Keep the faith. It will get better when (if) the spring season starts 2021.

    Also, I am happy with the football win. Yes to the many comments on the offense’s need to clean things up. Yes to the great Defense and improvement in kicking. As Coach Narduzzi says, “Let’s get 3% better every day.” H2P!!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Good question. I think if one unit is hit hard they decide to postpone.

      Pitt needs to keep UMass on speed dial since Pitt’s schedule is a little odd and no makeup date could be available.

      Like

  110. Pat Signal Out Today for a 2022 Commit. No name announced yet but I’d be willing to bet it’s a defensive player that wants to get in early on the Narduzzi/Bates weekly party.

    Like

  111. —We should keep in mind that if Atwell holds onto that pass at the back of the end zone — the one where he ended up on the tarp — we likely lose that game.

    —Hope we get Hallett back.

    —Note to Coach Salem — Still waiting for us to have a true threat at TE…

    — Jason Pinnock is one fast dude!

    —If that last Louisville pass, as lame as it was, was completed, they would have had a first down…

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. thought the same about Pinnock

      didn’t like all the hot dogging on the interception but not because of the hotdogging, just thought he could have made more yardage if he were just looking to maximize the return

      and as for the other thoughts on the Atwell catch or incomplete pass to end Cunningham’s day, neither of them were really close to what could have been expected to be made plays like a drop or a badly thrown pass

      does anyone think the forward pass called fumble was reasonable?
      anyone? physics?

      Like

      1. My take:

        I do not think it was a fumble due to his arm moving forward when the ball leaves his grasp but it was extremely close.

        Unless the replay provides indisputable evidence the play stands as called and remember we were the northern most school yesterday and it appears we get no breaks.

        It was a judgment call on the field and very close either way.

        Personally I believe the officiating is really inconsistent throughout the entire ACC and college football.

        Like

  113. Steelers looking shaky today in first half. Had the ball inside their own 10, ran for two yards, then threw two deep balls that didn’t come close…

    Puzzling play calling on the Southside.

    Steelers just scored to make it down 14-10.

    Go Pitt.

    Like

  114. Wonder how many teams will be ranked that have not played a game. So far there are 5 that may even be in the playoffs or bowls.

    Like

  115. Panthers drop to 24 after beating a ranked team. Bumped by b10 teams that have yet to play a game.

    Pitt is the Rodney Dangerfield of college football.

    Like

  117. Pitt VERSUS Top 25 Rankings

    So, let me get this straight..

    Memphis (25 AP/ 24 Coaches) stays ranked (and jockeying with PITT) IN BOTH POLLS, having played ONCE (1x), beating Ark State (?)

    .. One can only rationalize the deductive reasoning on behalf of Coaches & Sports Writers looking something like this:

    (conceptually)

    *Memphis > beats Ark St;
    **Ark St > beats Kansas St;
    ***Kansas St > beats OKL
    [Memphis therefore Top25]

    That is some fcked-up logic being spun for public consumption and ONLY Memphis & Cincinnati FANS WOULD BUY INTO, APOLOGIZE FOR, AND FEEL JUSTIFIED BY THIS WEEK’S TOP 25 albeit many of those homers, too, incidentally, would not, either. At least one should hope.

    .. AAC > [insert Pitt] because, you know, ..Sun Belt (?)

    ** “>” Greater than

    Pardon the rant but while we knew the Top 25 would be looking different from one week to the next, not even COVID can be used explain College Football Rankings Week 5

    Liked by 4 people

  120. Pitt opened as a 13.5 point favorite over NC State.

    Sucks you are 3/0 and drop in the rankings but if they continue to win the rankings will take care of itself.

    Liked by 3 people

  121. Funny thing is…. the line setters seem to think highly of PITT, I guess they don’t get a vote in the polls? Secondy, love how PITT sucks, Narduzzi sucks and Heather sucks. Yet they are “EXPECTED” to go 4-1 or better to start the season. Not bad for a team that sucks.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Ike. I sincerely feel a great kinship with you and love your enthusiasm. Just understand that there are more Alun and fans who think highly of the product on the field and do not, in fact, think PITT “sucks.”

      I’m very excited about this team. (My prediction, however, stands at 7 wins due to strength of schedule — season will be a success @8 wins, imho.)

      Like

      1. Someone has to carry the torch Neil and it comes easy to me. Crazy thing is, I’m sincere and my aim is true. Am I a pipe dreamer, an optimist or a kool-aid drinker? We will talk Neil when PITT wins more than 7 games this year. 😉 I know you’re a good guy and there is a slight difference of mentality. I don’t have one drop of giving up blood in my body. Two steps forward everyday. Take care my friend.

        Like

  124. Just a thought so much for speed wins all the time-Pitt defense maybe one of the best team defense we have seen in are lifetime-some in the 20’s we’re unstoppable-Pickett only has to do what it takes to win the game and not loose it the holding the ball for 11 plus minutes in the fourth quarter was masterful that’s playing to win- it looks like James might not be done playing pretty well the last two weeks-same with Aaron and Mr.Boyd who is much maligned on this site pretty funny actually-talking about maligned what freaking city has two coaches who take a lot shet but are both 3 and 0 just a thought they be a heck of a lot smarter than you and all know who you are – one last thing my brother Ike you don’t ever have stick up for an arse like the want to be jay it’s a good thing he went away a few more on here should just channeling my inner emel and frankcan

    Liked by 2 people

      2. Absolutely a great guy to have a conversation with like I said I channeling my own inner thoughts not his but using part oh his teaching putting my own mark on it no reason to yell it’s not needed

        Like

    2. EMEL?

      I don’t comment much during the course of a year but you’ll catch me doing so during football season. (True enough, certainly, as demonstrated in the last 24hrs.)

      Regardless, have gotten to know this group here @POV over the years by their name and their distinct Soc-Media personality.

      Which brings me to ask about EMEL

      Is he no longer with us? I ask because “ME” (above) mentioned him in the same sentence as “FRANCAN.”

      That’d be a terrible shame, as EMEL and his posts date back over a decade or more.

      Like

      2. Emel and FRANCAN takes me back to the time of the Stache. FRANCAN was missed when his posts suddenly disappeared. General consensus was he passed.

        Like

      3. Last I heard, “me” talked to Emel by phone around 6 months ago. He had a serious setback and I haven’t received an update but he was still with us last time I heard. Hang in there Emel.

        Like

  125. Just turned on the replay in time to see the bogus forward-pass ruled a “fumble” call. Two plays later the Villegas’s scores on that blown coverage. Not looking to good for Pitt right now.

    BTW, the Louie DE went right past Gabe Houy to cause the “fumble”. (Actually it was a “Flumble,” which is a rare flying fumble.)

    If I were a Louisville fan, I’d be really unhappy with the Louisville coaching staff. They have all this speed and talent and they kept trying to go pretty much the same stuff…

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Mack scored on that crazy play in the next series. That was a fourth-down play…

      Pitt football — drama and intrigue at it’s best. Even The Bard couldn’t come up with this stuff.

      Like

      1. Had never noticed this, but it looks like every player on the field – both teams – are wearing gloves. KP only has one glove and it’s on his throwing hand…

        Go Pitt.

        Like

  126. From what I was reading last night, Pitt was expected to be knocked totally from the AP Top 25. (from the entry of the B1G teams) So I was pleasantly surprised that we are still in there at No. 24. Especially since Michigan was placed lower than anticipated at No. 23. And they open with Minnesota, who was expected to be the 5th B1G team placed in the Top 25. And they probably still will be, before the Little Brown Jug game.

    And Pitt has been ranked in the Coaches Poll Top 25, for the first time this year. And the Panthers are up
    to No. 20 in the CbsSports poll. So we’re showing up in all the Top 25 Polls now !

    Liked by 2 people

  127. A day late, but great win by the Panthers. There were definitely warts, but we have a favorable schedule to work these out.

    I’ve heard a lot of back and forth on KP. But, regardless, he’s our guy. That’s not going to change. Let’s support him.

    On a more personal note, my whole family are vegetarians. We ordered food tonight…I left it to my wife to order and she knows I’m not a vegetarian, but I do it mostly for the kids. When we order out, I make an exception and she knows that. Got home and… nothing. Gut punch. I may need an extra drink tonight.

    Liked by 1 person

  130. So here we go again, PITT has told the nation that they are good. It’s like when you win a fight in your younger days in your ole neighborhood. They come out of the woodwork to test you. PITT needs to take care of business this weekend. Nothing less than a win will do with me, keep the players focused Narduzzi.

    Like

  131. I know BigB. I was thirsting for it tonight.

    I remember frankcan from the Blather. He always told us what he thought in the most…frankcan way. Had my back and forth with Emel. I wish him well and hope some day we hear from him.

    Like

  134. In watching some of the replay of the game, I noticed that Pitt was really juggling the Oline later in the game. Van Lynn had gone in when Houy went out. Van Lynn played right tackle and Warren left. But on some plays, we had an unbalanced line with Warren and Van Lynn on the same end of the line.

    The times I watched him, Van Lynn did okay. He moves pretty well and I think he can fill in for Houy without a drop off.

    Looked like Grant Carrigan played a lot as a blocking TE. And I saw Goncalves in one time.

    Go Pitt.

    Like

  135. We moved the ball decently, but the drives were killed by too many plays that lost yardage. Louieville had 3 sacks, but 8 other tackles for losses.
    Seemed like most of them were from slow developing run plays being chased down from the backside.

    This is a major flaw in our run game design and/or execution that needs to be fixed pronto.

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 2 people

  137. One other note from watching some of the replay – Sirvocea Dennis, if not a star, is certainly going to be a solid LB for us for a couple years.

    It’s crazy that he’s from Syracuse. Nice bit of recruiting by Coach Duzz and the gang…

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I completely agree. It’s interesting to me that he was a low level 2 star. While I would like Pitt to get higher rated recruits ( who doesn’t like to star gaze), it’s a player like Sirvocea that gives me hope that Duzz really does understand the type of player he needs on his defense.

      I’m not sold he has that type of eye for the offense…

      Like

      1. Dennis had a serious injury from my understanding and didn’t play much football in either his junior year or senior year, which would account for the non-offers and lack of stars. I think he mentioned that in his interview prior to the Syracuse game. He graduated high school at 190 pounds and is now at 230 pounds per that same interview. So, he did a lot of work personally to transform his body from a tweener (too slow to play db, too small to play LB). Good for him!

        Like

  138. James Conner carried 18 times for 109 yards today…. 6.1yd avg per carry and scored the winning TD against the Houston Texans defense. Also caught 4 passes for 40 yards. With a patched-up Steeler OL. He looked impressive for those of you who didn’t see it.

    Like

  139. My early morning post was blocked, so I’ll just skip the effort and post other’s work – pulled this from Backing The Pack (nc state blog) –

    “State’s defense drew some criticism after week one’s win, and it wasn’t unfounded. However, the group played better than it got credit for. It really only gave up 28 of the 42 points Wake scored and it came up with some big plays in the late stages of the 4th quarter to seal the game. It wasn’t the Steel Curtain, and it got gashed by Wake’s ground attack, but it still felt like growth. There was none of that feeling left after Virginia Tech ran for 312 yards on Saturday night.

    Patience is warranted with a new coach and a new system, but this is neither. It’s true that Gibson is in his first year as the defensive coordinator, but this system was still his last season when he was a defensive assistant, and early returns on this year are overwhelmingly negative. There are six football teams that have played more than 1 game that are giving up more rushing yards per contest than NC State.

    Nobody is expecting the defense to be Alabama, but there is not a dearth of talent here. It’s a youthful group, admittedly, but State is as deep and talented at linebacker as it has been since Doeren arrived, and it’s got some good players up front as well. It should not be this bad.“

    NC State’s D is giving up 231 ypg on the ground (opponents were W_F and VT).

    Liked by 1 person

  140. And here is a fan’s comment from the same blog Backing The Pack –

    “ We don’t know how good Wake is or how good VT is this year. So its difficult to gauge where we are. We also have zero access to practice so we can’t say what Leary (back-up QB) has been showing the coaches. It seemed to me that the offense ran much slower when Leary came in, and I have to assume that is because he just hasn’t fully grasped the playbook. The staff maybe thought Hock (starting QB) could run the offense better even if he wasn’t the better QB. Obviously, ready or not, it’s time to get your starting guy out there.
    On defense we may be seeing very real impacts of the lack of conditioning. Watching replays guys looked slow most of the game. They had some stretches of good play, but breakdowns early cost us big. Defense was always going to take time to get together with so many young guys and so little practice. If we don’t see improvement over the next few weeks, we have major problems. It is way to early in this weird arse season to go sink into the swamp of sadness.

    Posted by Widgeteer on Sep 27, 2020”

    Liked by 1 person

    1. What!!!! – NC State fans have “zero access to practice”. I was under the impression that only Pitt did not allow access to practices.

      I wonder how many other schools do not allow access to practice. I feel the despair of wolfpack fans.

      Liked by 2 people

  142. (List early morning comment) – without playing a game, somehow Minnesota will sneak into the top 25 prior to their season opener with #23 Michigan on October 24th. The Big Joke will be hyped as THE power conference to be reckoned with, yet the better teams of their conference (2 to 4) will feast on mediocre to below average opponents within the conference.

    Pitt FB needs to focus one game at a time – they have a marathon with 11 games and no bye week (thank you ACC) while the PAC 12 plays 7 and the BIG Joke only 8 straight. They (BIG Joke) will tell you they have the toughest schedule – just wait, it’s coming…

    If nothing else, Pitt FB has positioned itself to be talked about on the national stage for the first time in a very long time. Focus on beating the Wolfpack and getting guys healthy as all will be needed to endure the long stretch of games. Blowouts (Pitt wins) will be welcomed as key guys get some rest while lower depth guys get valuable playing time. Royal and Battle at the CB position, Hill at safety, Zubovic OL, Beville or Yellen at QB, Sauls at K, Brandon George at MLB, Mimes at TE/DE? – and on and on. You can add as you see fit.

    As a fan of Pitt FB, this is entertainment at the highest level since the ACC Coastal run. That my friends was fun, until the three season ending losses.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. every year the SEC and B10 are well represented in the early Top 25 …. thanks to the large block of midwestern and and southern voters. As the year goes on, the SEC usually merits its presence while the B1G rarely does.

      Like

    2. Rick – Pitt has a bye week 10/31 besides last week (12/5) of the ACC scheduled season.

      With a odd # of teams in the ACC, someone had to have a bye 12/5. It was Pitt.

      Like

      1. I stand corrected – I’m not sure how I missed that – good for Pitt that there is at least one bye week during the regular season.

        Like

  143. Don’t know if mentioned somewhere above in a prior post, but . .

    Where were John Morgan and David Green on Saturday? I don’t remember seeing them.

    Like

  144. Look, the ACC did everything they could to give Pitt the shaft this year, except for giving us Syracuse to start with, and leaving UNC off the schedule. Why should we get a bye week?

    I said before, is there a tougher ACC schedule?

    Like

    1. And the home schedule is front loaded, no fans, no weather. It is a joke. However, without the ACC we would be on the verge of dropping football.
      So yes it sucks, but damn we are lucky to be in the power 5.

      Liked by 1 person

  145. GC – If you really went one, I will work on it but I have to now get on my days work. I will use Clemson, ND, Miami, Pitt, UNC, Va. Tech, L’ville (which happens to be my top seven ACC power ranking) as my guide.

    Like

      1. Also consider getting Miami and ND back to back, then finishing with VA Tech and Clemson.
        Narduzzi hasn’t been good with bye weeks so maybe that doesn’t matter.

        Like

Comments are closed.