GT runs the triple option that Pitt has had recent problems with, but GT is coming off 4 straight losses to teams ranging from decent (UNC, Duke) to at-times-really-good (ND) to top-5 (Clemson). Compared to the defenses they've faced, GT has actually scored a lot of points in those 4 games (20, 22, 24 on the road -- 31 at home vs UNC), but they've also given up 30, 34, 38, and 43. We're just as capable a defense as any of those above--particularly in the opponents' backfield--and considering their home field advantage should be minimal since the Tech fan base is dejected and it's a 12:30 kickoff (and assuming far less than 5 fumbles in a quarter), I'd expect the Panthers to hold GT to about 17-24 points.
On offense, GT has given up all those points, but Pitt's offense hasn't looked consistent. Granted, we've played 2 games in downpours and 1 at an amped-up Iowa, plus we seem to shut it down when we go up by more than 7 in the second half, so it's tough to predict how our offense comes out and performs in a true back-and-forth game for 4 quarters, which this contest is likely to be. Peterman has looked really good since the first half at Iowa, and Chris James appears to be back which greatly improves our hot-and-cold run game. GT has given up big rushing yardage and big passing yardage at least twice each during their last 4 games, so if even one part of our offense is clicking we should be able to roll with it. It's of note that GT has recovered a ton of fumbles so far (7, #7 nationally) but they've also given up nearly as many (5). Considering the ascension of Peterman and possibly Chris James, how varied our passing game has become (Ford looking better, TE's remaining a priority, Weah and RB's getting looks), and that GT has done a terrible job sacking opponents and gives up 5.0 yards/carry, I see our offense being able to score at least 24 points. If we can get one short field off a fumble or even an interception (GT doesn't throw much but still has 3 interceptions in 96 attempts, as many or more than several teams that pass far more often), we could put up 30+.
Pitt 27-20
On offense, GT has given up all those points, but Pitt's offense hasn't looked consistent. Granted, we've played 2 games in downpours and 1 at an amped-up Iowa, plus we seem to shut it down when we go up by more than 7 in the second half, so it's tough to predict how our offense comes out and performs in a true back-and-forth game for 4 quarters, which this contest is likely to be. Peterman has looked really good since the first half at Iowa, and Chris James appears to be back which greatly improves our hot-and-cold run game. GT has given up big rushing yardage and big passing yardage at least twice each during their last 4 games, so if even one part of our offense is clicking we should be able to roll with it. It's of note that GT has recovered a ton of fumbles so far (7, #7 nationally) but they've also given up nearly as many (5). Considering the ascension of Peterman and possibly Chris James, how varied our passing game has become (Ford looking better, TE's remaining a priority, Weah and RB's getting looks), and that GT has done a terrible job sacking opponents and gives up 5.0 yards/carry, I see our offense being able to score at least 24 points. If we can get one short field off a fumble or even an interception (GT doesn't throw much but still has 3 interceptions in 96 attempts, as many or more than several teams that pass far more often), we could put up 30+.
Pitt 27-20
