Pitt Game preview

Big game for two 5-2 football teams, as the Pittsburgh Panthers take on the Fighting Irish on Saturday at 1:30pm CENTRAL time on NBC. The winner will be 6-2 and looking good for a New Years Day bowl game.
 
What to watch for  -  my keys of the game:

* Pitt running game  -  LeSean McCoy is a great RB, and has run for 140 yards in 5 straight games. The Irish must either slow him down, or get a lead early, forcing Pitt to pass. Stopping the run game of Pitt  -  one way or the other  -  will be the key to getting the Pitt passing offense on the field, allowing the Irish the chance at some big pressure plays on an injured QB for Pitt (Bill Stull). Pitt's run/pass balance is opposite of Notre Dame's pass heavy attack, so both teams know what to defend.

* Irish passing game  -  The top 20 ranked Irish passing offense has been improving all year. With Pitt's struggles against the pass last week versus Rutgers (5 pass TDs in the first half, after Rutgers only had 3 pass TDs in their first 6 games), Jimmy, Floyd, and co must be excited about the opportunity to pass on Pitt. If I were coaching Pitt (I'm not the Wannstache), I would zone defense the heck out of the Irish, leaving 5 at most in the box to cover the run. Getting an early lead using the deep passing game would let the Irish defense tee off on a Pitt offense that would be forced to pass the ball. Passing the ball effectively and early will be a major key for an Irish victory.

* Kicking game  -  The Irish kicking game is going to be put in some critical positions in these last 5 games. So far the 4 for 10 kicking record by Brandon Walker hasn't really cost the Irish - yet. 2 misses made the Michigan St game more comfortable for our opponents, which we cannot afford to give our next few opponents. I'm rooting for Brandon Walker, who has made all his extra points this season, in addition to making his last 3 field goal attempts.

Prediction time!

* Prediction 1  -  Jimmy Clausen will pass for 300 yards and 3 TDs / 1 int

* Prediction 2  - Pitt ground attack will have a solid day, gaining 175 yards rushing on the Irish. McCoy gets 135 yards and 2 TDs

* Prediction 3  -  Irish special teams hits bit with a Golden Tate punt return for a td. Tate's confidence is high, and he is ready to take one to the house.

* Prediction 4 - Irish defense comes up big, forcing 3 turnovers; 2 come from the Pitt QB Bill Stull via INT or fumble.

Score Prediction Time!!!
 
IRISH   42         PITT   20

Have a great weekend, and GO IRISH!!!