FanNation - The Republic of Sport

Thursday night, the Panthers travel to Tampa to take on South Florida in what should be Pitt's toughest game to date.  Ranked number 10, South Florida presents a major hurdle in Pitt's attempt to make their first bowl game in four years.  The Bulls, who soundly defeated Pitt last year at Heinz Field, feature a deep and talented roster that experienced success last year.

When Pitt Has the Ball

The Pitt running game finally began to gain its footing in the second half last Saturday against Syracuse, with Pitt gaining over 200 yards on the ground, en route to a 34-24 victory over the orange.  LeSean McCoy eclipsed the 100 yard mark for the first time in 2008, gaining 149 yards on 28 carries.

Bill Stull has continued his inconsistent play, and looks to get his game in gear this week; completing only 57 percent of his passes and throwing two touchdowns compared to three interceptions.  Head Coach Dave Wannstedt continues to say that freshman wideout Jonathan Baldwin needs to see the field more, but as of yet has seen few snaps.  His chances of seeing increased playing time tommorrow got better, as Wannstedt said he will reduce Oderick Turner's play load.  Turner has struggled with drops and inconsistent play, especially against Syracuse.

Pitt faces a fast and tough defense led by All-American defensive end George Selvie.  This unit is fast and aggressive, forcing opponents to make mistakes.  They are well coached and take on the agressive and energetic personality of their head coach Jim Leavitt. 

Selvie's health however, remains a question.  Varying reports have listed him as out, while others say he will play.  In all liklihood, his status will be a game time decision.  If Selvie does not play, it will be a major blow to Leavitt, and a major boon for Pitt.

When South Florida has the Ball

For South Florida's offense, it all begins and ends with Quarterback Matt Grothe.  Grothe is the Bulls leading Rusher and Passer on the season and is considered the best quarterback in the Big East.  He is an All-America candidate and the leader of the South Florida offense.

Grothe's favorite targets are wideouts Taurus Johnson, A.J. Love, and Jessie Hester.  All three are effective weapons on the perimiter for Grothe and the Bulls, who employ a spread attack. 

At running back Moise Planchar and Jamar Taylor split carries.  Neither back has amassed 200 yards yet, and the Bulls attack focuses mostly on Grothe's ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs.

For Pitt, linebacker Shane Murray played about ten snaps against Syracuse and has participated fully in practice for the first time this season.  He seems poised to play a much increased role this week, as his leadership and football intelligence will be much needed for Pitt's defense to slow down the South Florida attack.

The Pitt defensive line must pressure Grothe, something they have yet to do effectively, although they did a better job in the second half last week.

Here's a look at the key questions that will decide tommorrow's game:

Will Pitt be able to run for 150 or more yards?

Will Shane Murray play effective minutes and make an impact?

Will George Selvie play and will he be a presence in that time?

Can Pitt's offensive line protect Stull from Selvie?

Can Pitt's defensive line pressure Grothe and contain his scrambling ability?

Will Pitt play with emotion like in last year's back yard brawl?

Can Pitt score first?

If Pitt wants any chance to win this game, they have to score first and control the tempo of the game.  They have to give an outstanding emotional effort to hang with the faster and better coached Bulls.  Pitt has a chance in this game and I feel that they will keep the game closer than most people think, but in the end, South Florida is too good of a team for Pitt to win, especially on the road.

South Florida 24, Pitt 14

For more insight into Pitt Football and national sporting news, tune into my radio show on 92.1 WPTS-Pittsurgh.  It runs from 4:30-5:00 on Wednesday afternoons.  It can be found online at www.wpts.org