North Carolina: What do we know?

[pittpitt]

We all know UNC is also 6-1 and also undefeated in the ACC (3-0), and their one loss was 13-17 at South Carolina in the opening week of the season. What else?

Offense: UNC has a super dynamic QB in Marquise Williams. The basics: throws for 193 yards/game (67%, 9 TD, 7 int) and he runs a lot (68 yards/game, 7.0 yards/carry, 5 TD), and he's been very good at avoiding sacks. Their RB is also very good: Elijah Hood runs for 92 yards/game, 6.5 yards/carry, 8 TD. Both Williams and Hood were big-time recruits from North Carolina who stayed home over offers from Notre Dame and the like. They have a handful of receivers who all average around 50 yards/game, with Quinshad Davis having the most receptions (30, 328 yards) and Mack Hollins providing some of the biggest plays (only 14 receptions, but team-leading 21.9 yards/catch and 5 TD). They have many tall receivers, which could be an issue with our group of DB's. Recently their most consistent success is coming from the run game as their completion% and games with/without a passing TD are up and down. It is of note that 2 of their WR's are 1-for-1 passing this year, so they do that as well. Overall UNC is scoring lots of points, but against common opponents GT and Virginia, they scored 38 and 26 (Pitt scored 31 and 26).

Defense: They have very few sacks and TFL's, yet their pass defense is amazing (very low passing yards against, low completion % against, more interceptions than TD's against --- CB MJ Stewart has picked a pass in 3 different games). They have one of the better turnover margins in the country (only Miami and FSU have a better one in the ACC) and their two close wins came with a +2 and +3 TO margin during them (and they had a -3 margin in their only close loss), so UNC wins and loses to teams with equal-ish talent based on ball security. Thankfully Peterman is FAR more efficient than any of the 3 QB's UNC faced in those close games, so him remaining so and Ollison not having any more fumbles will be crucial. Speaking of Ollison, UNC's run defense is really bad. They give up 213 rushing yards/game (last in the ACC) at a rate of 4.6 yards/carry. UNC gave up only 255 rushing yards to GT, so no, that game didn't skew it like with Pitt.

Special Teams: Their K is accurate but he's never attempted a FG from 50+. Their punters both average only 37 yards/punt. PR/WR Ryan Switzer annihilated Illinois on punt returns (5 for 168, including an 85-yd TD), but has been average against everyone else. KR/RB TJ Logan averages a very good 24 yards/return on kickoffs (Pitt's return defense is top-25 in the country, surrendering 18.6 yards/return, but there have only been 14 returns). UNC's return defense is similarly good at 19.6 yards/return, but they've faced 22 returns.

Second Half Success: UNC has also done a very good job in second halves this year. They were down 0-21 with 2 minutes left in the first half at GT before surging ahead to 38-28 near the end of the game. They were tied 13-13 with Virginia at the half, outscoring them 13-0 after that. WF was hanging around with them halfway through the second quarter, down only 14-22, then UNC blanked them while scoring 4 more TD's (3 in the second half). Illinois was down only 7-13 halfway through the second quarter before UNC reeled off 5 straight TD's (4 in the second half) for a crushing victory.

 

[CaptainSidneyReilly]

We all know UNC is also 6-1 and also undefeated in the ACC (3-0), and their one loss was 13-17 at South Carolina in the opening week of the season. What else?

Offense: UNC has a super dynamic QB in Marquise Williams. The basics: throws for 193 yards/game (67%, 9 TD, 7 int) and he runs a lot (68 yards/game, 7.0 yards/carry, 5 TD), and he's been very good at avoiding sacks. Their RB is also very good: Elijah Hood runs for 92 yards/game, 6.5 yards/carry, 8 TD. Both Williams and Hood were big-time recruits from North Carolina who stayed home over offers from Notre Dame and the like. They have a handful of receivers who all average around 50 yards/game, with Quinshad Davis having the most receptions (30, 328 yards) and Mack Hollins providing some of the biggest plays (only 14 receptions, but team-leading 21.9 yards/catch and 5 TD). They have many tall receivers, which could be an issue with our group of DB's. Recently their most consistent success is coming from the run game as their completion% and games with/without a passing TD are up and down. It is of note that 2 of their WR's are 1-for-1 passing this year, so they do that as well. Overall UNC is scoring lots of points, but against common opponents GT and Virginia, they scored 38 and 26 (Pitt scored 31 and 26).

Defense: They have very few sacks and TFL's, yet their pass defense is amazing (very low passing yards against, low completion % against, more interceptions than TD's against --- CB MJ Stewart has picked a pass in 3 different games). They have one of the better turnover margins in the country (only Miami and FSU have a better one in the ACC) and their two close wins came with a +2 and +3 TO margin during them (and they had a -3 margin in their only close loss), so UNC wins and loses to teams with equal-ish talent based on ball security. Thankfully Peterman is FAR more efficient than any of the 3 QB's UNC faced in those close games, so him remaining so and Ollison not having any more fumbles will be crucial. Speaking of Ollison, UNC's run defense is really bad. They give up 213 rushing yards/game (last in the ACC) at a rate of 4.6 yards/carry. UNC gave up only 255 rushing yards to GT, so no, that game didn't skew it like with Pitt.

Special Teams: Their K is accurate but he's never attempted a FG from 50+. Their punters both average only 37 yards/punt. PR/WR Ryan Switzer annihilated Illinois on punt returns (5 for 168, including an 85-yd TD), but has been average against everyone else. KR/RB TJ Logan averages a very good 24 yards/return on kickoffs (Pitt's return defense is top-25 in the country, surrendering 18.6 yards/return, but there have only been 14 returns). UNC's return defense is similarly good at 19.6 yards/return, but they've faced 22 returns.

Second Half: UNC has also done a very good job in second halves this year. They were down 0-21 with 2 minutes left in the first half at GT before surging ahead to 38-28 near the end of the game. They were tied 13-13 with Virginia at the half, outscoring them 13-0 after that. WF was hanging around with them halfway through the second quarter, down only 14-22, then UNC blanked them while scoring 4 more TD's (3 in the second half). Illinois was down only 7-13 halfway through the second quarter before UNC reeled off 5 straight TD's (4 in the second half) for a crushing victory.

Great Post & Analysis. UNC has very good coach and QB that Pitt will have a hard time playing just like Cuse. These are very even Teams and a pure Toss Up Game. Quite Frankly, this will be Pitt biggest tests since Iowa and Georgia Tech? UNC Coach & Players very good on offense and this is by no means an easy game.

Pitt has 3 small advantages as I can see, but still may not make the difference.

1. UNC Players will come to Pitt thinking Pitt Players can be taken like the last 2 years. they quit and give up. They will not be expecting the Pitt Players having a new Narduzzi attitude! They will prepare for it and Fedora & Staff will try and tell and teach them, but that is one thing. Once you the UNC Players have to deal and face it, that is another entirely adjustment of thinking and playing. Just like the Georgia Tech Team found out to their regret! I see the same type of Game. Going to the wire either way!

2. Coach Pat & Staff will be better prepared on Game Plans on all 3 Units not like Chryst that just had the Offense ready to play as his Defense and Special teams let everyone down. Special Teams and Defense will be improved against UNC and Half Time Adjustment will match their own. In fact, Special Teams can win this one against UNC!

3. It is at Home with just 3 Days to prepare and this will test Coach Pat & Staff & Players. Clearly, Coach Pat will have Pitt Players ready on all 3 Units but so will Fedora! Pitt Players have to execute their best game and all 4 Quarters and Peterman needs a break out game all 4 Quarters too. Up to the Players because the Coaches will be ready!

Everyone is expecting to watch TCU & WVU and that could be a great game too, but Pitt Unc can hold its own on Thursday.

 

[SoufOaklin4Life]

Good offense with a dual threat qb.
Improved defense. But still not good, just not as awful as last year.

Will be a real test, and I'd give them the slight edge .

 

[thebadby2]

We all know UNC is also 6-1 and also undefeated in the ACC (3-0), and their one loss was 13-17 at South Carolina in the opening week of the season. What else?

Offense: UNC has a super dynamic QB in Marquise Williams. The basics: throws for 193 yards/game (67%, 9 TD, 7 int) and he runs a lot (68 yards/game, 7.0 yards/carry, 5 TD), and he's been very good at avoiding sacks. Their RB is also very good: Elijah Hood runs for 92 yards/game, 6.5 yards/carry, 8 TD. Both Williams and Hood were big-time recruits from North Carolina who stayed home over offers from Notre Dame and the like. They have a handful of receivers who all average around 50 yards/game, with Quinshad Davis having the most receptions (30, 328 yards) and Mack Hollins providing some of the biggest plays (only 14 receptions, but team-leading 21.9 yards/catch and 5 TD). They have many tall receivers, which could be an issue with our group of DB's. Recently their most consistent success is coming from the run game as their completion% and games with/without a passing TD are up and down. It is of note that 2 of their WR's are 1-for-1 passing this year, so they do that as well. Overall UNC is scoring lots of points, but against common opponents GT and Virginia, they scored 38 and 26 (Pitt scored 31 and 26).

Defense: They have very few sacks and TFL's, yet their pass defense is amazing (very low passing yards against, low completion % against, more interceptions than TD's against --- CB MJ Stewart has picked a pass in 3 different games). They have one of the better turnover margins in the country (only Miami and FSU have a better one in the ACC) and their two close wins came with a +2 and +3 TO margin during them (and they had a -3 margin in their only close loss), so UNC wins and loses to teams with equal-ish talent based on ball security. Thankfully Peterman is FAR more efficient than any of the 3 QB's UNC faced in those close games, so him remaining so and Ollison not having any more fumbles will be crucial. Speaking of Ollison, UNC's run defense is really bad. They give up 213 rushing yards/game (last in the ACC) at a rate of 4.6 yards/carry. UNC gave up only 255 rushing yards to GT, so no, that game didn't skew it like with Pitt.

Special Teams: Their K is accurate but he's never attempted a FG from 50+. Their punters both average only 37 yards/punt. PR/WR Ryan Switzer annihilated Illinois on punt returns (5 for 168, including an 85-yd TD), but has been average against everyone else. KR/RB TJ Logan averages a very good 24 yards/return on kickoffs (Pitt's return defense is top-25 in the country, surrendering 18.6 yards/return, but there have only been 14 returns). UNC's return defense is similarly good at 19.6 yards/return, but they've faced 22 returns.

Second Half Success: UNC has also done a very good job in second halves this year. They were down 0-21 with 2 minutes left in the first half at GT before surging ahead to 38-28 near the end of the game. They were tied 13-13 with Virginia at the half, outscoring them 13-0 after that. WF was hanging around with them halfway through the second quarter, down only 14-22, then UNC blanked them while scoring 4 more TD's (3 in the second half). Illinois was down only 7-13 halfway through the second quarter before UNC reeled off 5 straight TD's (4 in the second half) for a crushing victory.

I haven't seen a ton of them but what stood out to me in the bits and pieces I have watched is that they appear to be very athletic all over the field-they're a fast team. I think they will be a handful for us.

 

[WNYPanther]

Their O can be scary good when its clicking, can't afford the missed tackles and players out of position issues we had yesterday vs UNC.

 

[Mthomas]

At this point it is simply incredible that Pitt coming off 5 road games at 6-1 simply unexpected

is UNC better than Pitt??? uh.... no their not.

but as a long time Pitt fan lately we seem to expect Pitt to get home, big game, lots on the line and we crap the bed

I do not think we blowout the Tarheels but I think we should win so far so good

everything that Pitt does has been working it is a truly amazing difference in coaching and attitude. And that has been working very well so far.

Pitt has a lot of speed, stamina and attitude I think many of us are taken aback by the big change this program has shown

should be a fun game.

Hail to Pitt

 

[Teh Teh]

We all know UNC is also 6-1 and also undefeated in the ACC (3-0), and their one loss was 13-17 at South Carolina in the opening week of the season. What else?

Offense: UNC has a super dynamic QB in Marquise Williams. The basics: throws for 193 yards/game (67%, 9 TD, 7 int) and he runs a lot (68 yards/game, 7.0 yards/carry, 5 TD), and he's been very good at avoiding sacks. Their RB is also very good: Elijah Hood runs for 92 yards/game, 6.5 yards/carry, 8 TD. Both Williams and Hood were big-time recruits from North Carolina who stayed home over offers from Notre Dame and the like. They have a handful of receivers who all average around 50 yards/game, with Quinshad Davis having the most receptions (30, 328 yards) and Mack Hollins providing some of the biggest plays (only 14 receptions, but team-leading 21.9 yards/catch and 5 TD). They have many tall receivers, which could be an issue with our group of DB's. Recently their most consistent success is coming from the run game as their completion% and games with/without a passing TD are up and down. It is of note that 2 of their WR's are 1-for-1 passing this year, so they do that as well. Overall UNC is scoring lots of points, but against common opponents GT and Virginia, they scored 38 and 26 (Pitt scored 31 and 26).

Defense: They have very few sacks and TFL's, yet their pass defense is amazing (very low passing yards against, low completion % against, more interceptions than TD's against --- CB MJ Stewart has picked a pass in 3 different games). They have one of the better turnover margins in the country (only Miami and FSU have a better one in the ACC) and their two close wins came with a +2 and +3 TO margin during them (and they had a -3 margin in their only close loss), so UNC wins and loses to teams with equal-ish talent based on ball security. Thankfully Peterman is FAR more efficient than any of the 3 QB's UNC faced in those close games, so him remaining so and Ollison not having any more fumbles will be crucial. Speaking of Ollison, UNC's run defense is really bad. They give up 213 rushing yards/game (last in the ACC) at a rate of 4.6 yards/carry. UNC gave up only 255 rushing yards to GT, so no, that game didn't skew it like with Pitt.

Special Teams: Their K is accurate but he's never attempted a FG from 50+. Their punters both average only 37 yards/punt. PR/WR Ryan Switzer annihilated Illinois on punt returns (5 for 168, including an 85-yd TD), but has been average against everyone else. KR/RB TJ Logan averages a very good 24 yards/return on kickoffs (Pitt's return defense is top-25 in the country, surrendering 18.6 yards/return, but there have only been 14 returns). UNC's return defense is similarly good at 19.6 yards/return, but they've faced 22 returns.

Second Half Success: UNC has also done a very good job in second halves this year. They were down 0-21 with 2 minutes left in the first half at GT before surging ahead to 38-28 near the end of the game. They were tied 13-13 with Virginia at the half, outscoring them 13-0 after that. WF was hanging around with them halfway through the second quarter, down only 14-22, then UNC blanked them while scoring 4 more TD's (3 in the second half). Illinois was down only 7-13 halfway through the second quarter before UNC reeled off 5 straight TD's (4 in the second half) for a crushing victory.

Interesting to note MJ Stewart was arrested for assault and battery before the Uva game and was suspended one game only! He will play against Pitt. His court date is in November but I think I read the other guy was in the hospital so kinda serious.

Also they are banged up on the line, having 2 DT, one DE and One LB all out for they ear that were starters.

I'd question the D stats as they haven't played much competition, but you know unc recruits verywell and has athletes stocked.

 

[Las Panteras]

Good offense with a dual threat qb.
Improved defense. But still not good, just not as awful as last year.

Will be a real test, and I'd give them the slight edge .

I would agree that the edge goes to UNC

To combat this......Pitt must put a great offensive AND defensive performance in the same ballgame

They do this...they win by double digits

If not, UNC by less than a FG

 

[MrGee]

I would agree that the edge goes to UNC

To combat this......Pitt must put a great offensive AND defensive performance in the same ballgame

They do this...they win by double digits

If not, UNC by less than a FG

Tall receivers not good for our midget DBs

 

[alt1001]

Interesting to note MJ Stewart was arrested for assault and battery before the Uva game and was suspended one game only! He will play against Pitt. His court date is in November but I think I read the other guy was in the hospital so kinda serious.

Also they are banged up on the line, having 2 DT, one DE and One LB all out for they ear that were starters.

I'd question the D stats as they haven't played much competition, but you know unc recruits verywell and has athletes stocked.

Wrong. MJ was arrested the night of the GT game 3 weeks ago, and was suspended for both WF and UVA. He was given a misdemeanor citation for a fight at a frat house (oh the horror). There is nobody in the hospital. A broken nose was the only injury. The punishment fits the crime, IMO.

 

[alt1001]

Tall receivers not good for our midget DBs

UNC will start athletic receivers who are 6'5, 6'4, and 6'4, and Marquise loves to let them play jump ball.

I doubt Pitt will be able to match up with UNC's offense. UNC will get their points. They have probably the best OL in the ACC, and quite possibly the deepest skilled position in the conference, however the entire offensive ship goes as Marquise does. If he's off, it ends up a lot like it did against South Carolina. If he's on, they'll drop 50 points on a team before the end of the 3rd.

The ex-factor will be Pitts offense versus Chizik's defense, and turnovers in my opinion.

 

[steel1975]

Most of this info is interesting but really not that helpful.

Can someone analyze UNC's games this year, and most especially, our common opponents and let us know how they compare?

Have they had a tough schedule? How many home/away games? Did they soundly win their games or were they fluky? Have the referees favored UNC (in the opposite way that they have hurt us?)

 

[Slick Manager of Champs]

Good offense with a dual threat qb.
Improved defense. But still not good, just not as awful as last year.

Will be a real test, and I'd give them the slight edge .

1000 yards combined last year, jumped out to a 14 point lead but couldn't hold it. Still not convinced our "D" is back yet; that opening Syracuse drive was way to easy. But I'm thinking it might be improved enough that we don't let them get points/500 yards and we can come out ahead with a 31-27 type win.

 

[steel1975]

Eric Dungey is the real deal.

But his success against us was based on 2 things -- throwing the ball very quickly before any pass rush developed, and letting his tall WRs abuse our shorter CBs.

The problem is, he was throwing it "up for grabs", not really throwing it successfully into tight spaces. When he tried doing that, he got picked off.

I don't think the UNC QB can get it out as quickly as Dungey -- he's got a much slower release and doesn't read defenses as well as Dungey. We need to get to him before he has time to read, and make sure we tackle when we arrive.

 

[Teh Teh]

Their legal issues aren't even through. Sounds like depth chart justice

http://m.bleacherreport.com/article...ts-suspensions-to-be-lifted-by-north-carolina

 

[alt1001]

I don't think the UNC QB can get it out as quickly as Dungey -- he's got a much slower release and doesn't read defenses as well as Dungey. We need to get to him before he has time to read, and make sure we tackle when we arrive.

Syracuse doesn't have the pass protection that UNC does, doesn't have the run game UNC does to keep defenses in check, and Marquise will beat with you with his legs better than probably anyone in the ACC if you get over aggressive with him.

Your plan sounds good on paper when talking about Syracuse but Cuse isn't UNC on offense. Not even close. They don't have the same talent, experience, firepower, etc.

Nobody has been able to stop UNC on offense, not even South Carolina in the loss. UNC has amassed 400 or more yards in every game this season. South Carolina came up with timely turnovers and benefited from UNC mental hiccups, which takes me back to my points: for Pitt to win they have to get turnovers. For Pitt to win they have to keep up offensively. UNC is going to get their yardage and points. It's going to happen. Can you bend but not break? Come up with stops in the redzone or get a TO? Can your offense keep up in a shootout? Those are legitimate concerns.

 

[alt1001]

Their legal issues aren't even through. Sounds like depth chart justice

http://m.bleacherreport.com/article...ts-suspensions-to-be-lifted-by-north-carolina

Most legal issues aren't through when guys get reinstated. Legal issues could take months just to get to court for even the most minor issues. Just because they aren't through doesn't mean you hold them out until they are. You gather the facts and make the best decision with what you have. The facts are that they got into a fight after a disagreement at a party and were cited with misdemeanors. 2 games is plenty for such.

 

[D.B.Cooper]

Can someone analyze UNC's games this year, and most especially, our common opponents and let us know how they compare?

Pitt versus GT: 31 points, 391 yards, in 34:20 time of possession. Yardage allowed: 482
UNC versus GT: 38 points, 413 yards, in 21:15 time of possession. Yardage allowed: 417

Pitt versus UVA: 26 points, 363 yards, in 30:21 time of possession. Yardage allowed: 348
UNC versus UVA: 26 points, 422 yards, in 26:00 time of possession. Yardage allowed: 353

 

[pittpitt]

They have probably the best OL in the ACC

I have no idea how true this is when compared to Clemson or FSU, but I'm willing to do a little research...

As recruits, UNC's starting OL were two 4* (So OT Spain, Sr OG Turner) and three 3*.

Regarding their potential as individuals in the NFL:
--Sr OG Turner is projected as a 2nd/3rd round pick this spring.
--Jr OG Peterson is projected as a potential late-round pick in 2016 or 2017.
--Jr OT Heck is projected as a 4th-6th round pick in 2016 or 2017. (WalterFootball includes this note from a week ago: "In speaking with sources, Heck hasn't impressed")
--So OT Spain is projected as a 2nd-round type talent for 2017 or 2018. He is noted for his speed and athleticism.
--Jr C Crowley was projected on NFL Draft Scout as the #12 Center in 2017 (6 centers were drafted in 2015). He is noted for his speed and athleticism.

Most of the comments from NFL evaluators noted their run blocking being superior to their pass blocking, which seems about right based on what we know about UNC's offense.

 

[Teh Teh]

Most legal issues aren't through when guys get reinstated. Legal issues could take months just to get to court for even the most minor issues. Just because they aren't through doesn't mean you hold them out until they are. You gather the facts and make the best decision with what you have. The facts are that they got into a fight after a disagreement at a party and were cited with misdemeanors. 2 games is plenty for such.

Hah..
Well that's good to know you think that. I think in most environments, you get in a fight with a colleague you get fired or kicked off teams. This wasn't a fight... He was arrested. I mean 2 game suspension? He should lose his scholarship. I said the same when it happened with sheard at Pitt years ago. If the coach wants to reinstate him fine, but the tax payers shouldn't pay for his school.

 

[alt1001]

I have no idea how true this is when compared to Clemson or FSU, but I'm willing to do a little research...

As recruits, UNC's starting OL were two 4* (So OT Spain, Sr OG Turner) and three 3*.

Regarding their potential as individuals in the NFL:
--Sr OG Turner is projected as a 2nd/3rd round pick this spring.
--Jr OG Peterson is projected as a potential late-round pick in 2016 or 2017.
--Jr OT Heck is projected as a 4th-6th round pick in 2016 or 2017. (WalterFootball includes this note from a week ago: "In speaking with sources, Heck hasn't impressed")
--So OT Spain is projected as a 2nd-round type talent for 2017 or 2018. He is noted for his speed and athleticism.
--Jr C Crowley was projected on NFL Draft Scout as the #12 Center in 2017 (6 centers were drafted in 2015). He is noted for his speed and athleticism.

Most of the comments from NFL evaluators noted their run blocking being superior to their pass blocking, which seems about right based on what we know about UNC's offense.

The starting OL returned all 5 starters that had a combined 106 starts coming into this season, the most in the ACC. The entire unit was named to the Joe Moore Award Quarterly Honor Roll for teamwork, already this year. 3 different OL have already been named ACC OL of the week.

They also anchor an offense that is first in the ACC in scoring offense and total offense, 1st in yards per rush and pass efficiency, 1st in completion percentage and receiving yards per attempt, 2nd only to GT in total rushing, and 2nd only to Duke in sacks allowed.

Landon Turner is considered the #3 OG in the country, Caleb Peterson the #7 OG in the Country, Lucas Crowley is considered a top 10 C in the country, and Jon Heck is a top 25 tackle.

It is debatable against the likes of Clemson or FSU, but there is no debating that they're pretty good.

 

[D.B.Cooper]

Hah..
Well that's good to know you think that. I think in most environments, you get in a fight with a colleague you get fired or kicked off teams. This wasn't a fight... He was arrested. I mean 2 game suspension? He should lose his scholarship. I said the same when it happened with sheard at Pitt years ago. If the coach wants to reinstate him fine, but the tax payers shouldn't pay for his school.

What a joke. Do you realize how common fights are at frat houses or college parties? How common they are in football programs? Do you even realize that these guys weren't arrested until 11 days following the fight because someone's pride was hurt and decided to press charges? This was your run of the mill fight and is absolutely nothing that should result in more than 2 games. If there were weapons involved, or someone had to be taken in an ambulance, or property was destroyed, you might have a point. A fight, a broken nose, and misdemeanor charge? No.

I know you'd like him to be, considering he is the best in the secondary on a team that is tops in the conference for pass defense, but no.

 

[Farnox]

Pitt versus GT: 31 points, 391 yards, in 34:20 time of possession. Yardage allowed: 482
UNC versus GT: 38 points, 413 yards, in 21:15 time of possession. Yardage allowed: 417

Pitt versus UVA: 26 points, 363 yards, in 30:21 time of possession. Yardage allowed: 348
UNC versus UVA: 26 points, 422 yards, in 26:00 time of possession. Yardage allowed: 353

These stats look pretty even to me. I think this game will come to who makes the fewest mistakes.
One or two breakdowns will cost either team the game. Pitt has to avoid the easy scores like Syracuse's first drive;
two plays and a touchdown. You cannot give good teams like NC any easy points.

 

[BanksvilleDave]

Can't imagine UNC being a tougher game than at Iowa. Looks to me like Pitt, being a ball control offense facing a defense that allows 4.61 yards per rush attempt, should be able to control the game clock handily. On the other hand, unc does not allow negative plays on offense, kind of what the Pitt defense needs to be successful. Turnovers are a wash. Looks like the makings of a game Pitt wins by one score via offensive ball control and keeping the UNC offense off the field. Just my 2 cents.

 

[Pghfan]

I know very little about unc but the whole coming off an off week vs. a short week for us is a disadvantage for sure.. I think we match up better against a running QB than a throwing qb..

 

[Pittx9]

Interesting to note MJ Stewart was arrested for assault and battery before the Uva game and was suspended one game only! He will play against Pitt. His court date is in November but I think I read the other guy was in the hospital so kinda serious.

Also they are banged up on the line, having 2 DT, one DE and One LB all out for they ear that were starters.

I'd question the D stats as they haven't played much competition, but you know unc recruits verywell and has athletes stocked.

Classic North Carolina. Calling them a university is a joke. I have no real dislike for them, but after the fake classes it's easy to call them out. One game for assault and battery?! They must know something we don't, either that or they wait to hear the court's decision. If they wait and he's found guilty and gets serious charges, you have to really think about kicking the kid off for good, so he'll probably get suspended one more game.

 

[PittME75]

I know very little about unc but the whole coming off an off week vs. a short week for us is a disadvantage for sure.. I think we match up better against a running QB than a throwing qb..

Why is the short week more of a disadvantage for Pitt? UNC played Virginia Saturday did they not? At least we don't have to travel. Should be a plus for Pitt.

 

[D.B.Cooper]

Classic North Carolina. Calling them a university is a joke. I have no real dislike for them, but after the fake classes it's easy to call them out. One game for assault and battery?! They must know something we don't, either that or they wait to hear the court's decision. If they wait and he's found guilty and gets serious charges, you have to really think about kicking the kid off for good, so he'll probably get suspended one more game.

What are you talking about? None of what that guy said were even facts. He got 2 games for a misdemeanor charge. Where are you even coming up with 'serious charges'?

 

[D.B.Cooper]

Can't imagine UNC being a tougher game than at Iowa.

UNC versus Illinois at home: Wins by 34 while only giving up 14 points.
Iowa versus Illinois at home: Wins by 9 while giving up 20.

Your statement really all depends on which UNC team shows up.

 

[pittpitt]

The starting OL returned all 5 starters that had a combined 106 starts coming into this season, the most in the ACC. The entire unit was named to the Joe Moore Award Quarterly Honor Roll for teamwork, already this year. 3 different OL have already been named ACC OL of the week.

I found the ACC Preseason All-Conference team/players, as picked by the media.

Landon Turner was picked #1 guard by quite a margin (108 pts, #2 got 36)
Caleb Peterson was picked #8 guard (2 spots behind DJ)
Jon Heck was picked #4 tackle (Heck is apparently the one doing poorly this year)
Lucas Crowley was picked #5 center

 

[Pittx9]

What are you talking about? None of what that guy said were even facts. He got 2 games for a misdemeanor charge. Where are you even coming up with 'serious charges'?

I said if he's found guilty of serious charges. I'm not going by any facts, just saying that if he would get charged with assault and battery, which is no joke, Carolina would not come down hard on him.

 

[Teh Teh]

Drinking at a party is one thing you aren't hurting someone. Fighting or hitting someone should be punished more severely.

 

[steel1975]

Can't imagine UNC being a tougher game than at Iowa. Looks to me like Pitt, being a ball control offense facing a defense that allows 4.61 yards per rush attempt, should be able to control the game clock handily. On the other hand, unc does not allow negative plays on offense, kind of what the Pitt defense needs to be successful. Turnovers are a wash. Looks like the makings of a game Pitt wins by one score via offensive ball control and keeping the UNC offense off the field. Just my 2 cents.

I think this is EXACTLY right. We ran right thru UNC last year, but that was with Connor. I think Ollison could have similar success. And if they stack the box with 8 or 9 to stop the run, we have Peterman now who can actually throw it.

I definitely feel we need to win this game with ball control offense. I think we match up well against their defense.

 

[pitt-girl]

Bump