Are my Rockets for real? Sure as hell seems like it. Pitt only 1 offensive TD against Rutgers?!?!?! Comee on. Pitts O is weak and dieing...however, the D is looking good. Toledo has been playing some what mistake free football. If it wasnt for the refs, Toledo would be 4-0, but thats another story. Toledo running game is clicking like it has been for the last 9 years and moral is high on the team right now. I think the opening line will be around Toledo +7
Toledo @ Pitt !!!!!!!!
- Thread starter hellah10
- Start date
Cappers respecting your beloved Toledo as it is only Pitt -3. By the way congrats on Toledo smashing UNLV. Big winner for me.
GM
GM
ouch i was 3 points off. My local has Toledo +4. I really think Toledo goes into Pitt and wins. line down to 3...so smart money allreayd on Toledo
I took Toledo +4 allready
I took Toledo +4 allready
Pitt has alot of respect for the Rockets
Pitt has alot of respect for the Rockets
UT counting on offense to offset Pitt?s rated defense
By RON MUSSELMAN
BLADE SPORTS WRITER
The University of Pittsburgh, which plays in the same city where Steelers Hall-of-Famers Joe Greene, Jack Lambert, Jack Ham and Mel Blount once roamed, has forged one of the top-rated football defenses in the country.
It won?t be confused with the Steel Curtain, but it?s still very sturdy.
Pitt, which plays host to Toledo Saturday, is ranked among the top 10 nationally in five defensive categories. Among the 117 Division I-A schools, the Panthers are first in pass efficiency defense (65.5 rating), tied for fourth in interceptions (eight), tied for seventh in total defense (240 yards per game), tied for eighth in turnovers (14) and ninth in passing defense (134.8 average).
"Our defense has been very solid for us all year," Pitt coach Walt Harris said yesterday.
The Panthers (3-1) have held two of their four opponents to fewer than 100 yards passing, and are one of only two teams that have not allowed a touchdown pass. Oklahoma is the other.
"Defensively they?re very physical up front," Toledo coach Tom Amstutz said. "They have three outstanding, veteran linebackers who are as good as any in the country. They have an All-American prospect at cornerback.
"They?re as good as any defense in the country right now."
Pitt held hapless Rutgers to minus-three yards rushing and 167 total yards of offense Saturday, while forcing five turnovers and returning a fumble for a touchdown in a 23-3 Big East Conference victory.
However, the Panthers have not faced an offense as explosive as Toledo?s quick-strike attack. The Rockets (3-1) have scored on their opening drive in each of their four games, marching 75, 19, 69 and 57 yards.
The Rockets rank 11th in the country in scoring offense (42.0). Quarterback Brian Jones ranks 12th in passing efficiency with a 154.5 rating, and tailback William Bratton is averaging 94.2 yards per game and is tied for seventh nationally in scoring, averaging two touchdowns per game.
"Toledo presents a major challenge to us," Harris said. "They are outstanding on offense."
"This will definitely be the best defense we?ve faced so far, and we?re looking forward to the challenge," Jones said. "They have a lot of talent on defense but we have a lot of confidence in each other and we feel we can move the ball and make things happen against anybody."
Pitt?s defense has had to be good, because its offense has been stuck in reverse for most of the year. The Panthers, 18-0 all-time against Mid-American Conference schools, have started three tailbacks in the first four games. They are averaging just 112.8 yards per game on the ground and 2.5 yards per rush.
Against Rutgers, the Panthers were 3-for-15 on third-down opportunities, lost two fumbles and failed to convert four times in short-yardage situations.
"Offensively, we had a rough game," Harris said. "Give a lot of credit to Rutgers. We need to do a better job on offense if we?re going to be the kind of football team we need to be."
Run defense has not been one of Toledo?s strengths. The Rockets are tied for 86th in the country, allowing 174.5 yards per game. They have allowed three straight opposing players - two running backs and a quarterback - to rush for 100 yards or more, and that hadn?t happened since 1998, a span of more than 40 games.
Harris is well aware of the fact that the last time Toledo played in Pennsylvania, two years ago, the Rockets upset Penn State 24-6.
"We watched that game in preparation for our game, and the thing that impressed me most about Toledo was the way they were moving the ball up and down the field against Penn State," Harris said. "And they weren?t really excited about it. It looked like standard operating procedure.
"To play up there against Penn State, you?d think a team from the MAC or from any league, would be excited about their results. They just knocked them out. It was like it was supposed to happen."
Toledo is 26-4 in its last 30 games and all four losses have come on the road.
"I recognize how good they are," said Harris, whose team has won nine of its last 10 games. "Our challenge, when you?re not playing in a Big East game, is to make sure that our players have the necessary respect. You win 10 games two years in a row, and win your bowl game, that lets you know this group of players and program is tremendous."
Pitt has alot of respect for the Rockets
UT counting on offense to offset Pitt?s rated defense
By RON MUSSELMAN
BLADE SPORTS WRITER
The University of Pittsburgh, which plays in the same city where Steelers Hall-of-Famers Joe Greene, Jack Lambert, Jack Ham and Mel Blount once roamed, has forged one of the top-rated football defenses in the country.
It won?t be confused with the Steel Curtain, but it?s still very sturdy.
Pitt, which plays host to Toledo Saturday, is ranked among the top 10 nationally in five defensive categories. Among the 117 Division I-A schools, the Panthers are first in pass efficiency defense (65.5 rating), tied for fourth in interceptions (eight), tied for seventh in total defense (240 yards per game), tied for eighth in turnovers (14) and ninth in passing defense (134.8 average).
"Our defense has been very solid for us all year," Pitt coach Walt Harris said yesterday.
The Panthers (3-1) have held two of their four opponents to fewer than 100 yards passing, and are one of only two teams that have not allowed a touchdown pass. Oklahoma is the other.
"Defensively they?re very physical up front," Toledo coach Tom Amstutz said. "They have three outstanding, veteran linebackers who are as good as any in the country. They have an All-American prospect at cornerback.
"They?re as good as any defense in the country right now."
Pitt held hapless Rutgers to minus-three yards rushing and 167 total yards of offense Saturday, while forcing five turnovers and returning a fumble for a touchdown in a 23-3 Big East Conference victory.
However, the Panthers have not faced an offense as explosive as Toledo?s quick-strike attack. The Rockets (3-1) have scored on their opening drive in each of their four games, marching 75, 19, 69 and 57 yards.
The Rockets rank 11th in the country in scoring offense (42.0). Quarterback Brian Jones ranks 12th in passing efficiency with a 154.5 rating, and tailback William Bratton is averaging 94.2 yards per game and is tied for seventh nationally in scoring, averaging two touchdowns per game.
"Toledo presents a major challenge to us," Harris said. "They are outstanding on offense."
"This will definitely be the best defense we?ve faced so far, and we?re looking forward to the challenge," Jones said. "They have a lot of talent on defense but we have a lot of confidence in each other and we feel we can move the ball and make things happen against anybody."
Pitt?s defense has had to be good, because its offense has been stuck in reverse for most of the year. The Panthers, 18-0 all-time against Mid-American Conference schools, have started three tailbacks in the first four games. They are averaging just 112.8 yards per game on the ground and 2.5 yards per rush.
Against Rutgers, the Panthers were 3-for-15 on third-down opportunities, lost two fumbles and failed to convert four times in short-yardage situations.
"Offensively, we had a rough game," Harris said. "Give a lot of credit to Rutgers. We need to do a better job on offense if we?re going to be the kind of football team we need to be."
Run defense has not been one of Toledo?s strengths. The Rockets are tied for 86th in the country, allowing 174.5 yards per game. They have allowed three straight opposing players - two running backs and a quarterback - to rush for 100 yards or more, and that hadn?t happened since 1998, a span of more than 40 games.
Harris is well aware of the fact that the last time Toledo played in Pennsylvania, two years ago, the Rockets upset Penn State 24-6.
"We watched that game in preparation for our game, and the thing that impressed me most about Toledo was the way they were moving the ball up and down the field against Penn State," Harris said. "And they weren?t really excited about it. It looked like standard operating procedure.
"To play up there against Penn State, you?d think a team from the MAC or from any league, would be excited about their results. They just knocked them out. It was like it was supposed to happen."
Toledo is 26-4 in its last 30 games and all four losses have come on the road.
"I recognize how good they are," said Harris, whose team has won nine of its last 10 games. "Our challenge, when you?re not playing in a Big East game, is to make sure that our players have the necessary respect. You win 10 games two years in a row, and win your bowl game, that lets you know this group of players and program is tremendous."
Sept. 23, 2002
Toledo, OH - Toledo closes out the non-conference portion of its 2002 schedule with a very challenging game at Pittsburgh on Sept. 28. Following an off week on Oct. 5, the Rockets return to action in the Mid-American Conference with a home game against Ball State on Oct. 12.
The Pittsburgh game figures to be a closely fought battle. Pitt (3-1) didn't have much of a challenge in its 23-3 win over Rutgers last week. The Panthers' only loss this season was a 14-12 setback to Texas A&M on Sept. 7. Pitt has also defeated Ohio (27-14) and UAB (26-20) this year.
The Panthers are led by junior quarterback Rod Rutherford, who has six touchdown passes this season, three of them to top receiver Lamar Slade (18 receptions, 13.5 yards per catch). Junior Brandon Miree is the team's leading rusher with 249 yards.
Toledo (3-1) is coming off a surprisingly easy 38-21 win over UNLV on Sept. 21. The Rockets led at halftime, 24-0, and took a 31-7 lead into the fourth quarter before the Rebels put together a couple of scores.
Senior tailback William Bratton rushed for 81 yards and three touchdowns against UNLV, his second consecutive three-TD game. Bratton now has eight rushing TDs on the season. Quarterback Brian Jones connected on 10 of his first 11 passes against the Rebels. He wound up 11-of-20 for 116 yards.
Toledo's defense was effective against UNLV. The Rockets registered a season-high six sacks and put pressure on both Rebel QBs all night. Linebacker Tom Ward led the charge with a career-high 22 tackles, while free safety Keon Jackson chipped in with an interception, a stripped fumble recovery, three pass deflections and four tackles.
Toledo, OH - Toledo closes out the non-conference portion of its 2002 schedule with a very challenging game at Pittsburgh on Sept. 28. Following an off week on Oct. 5, the Rockets return to action in the Mid-American Conference with a home game against Ball State on Oct. 12.
The Pittsburgh game figures to be a closely fought battle. Pitt (3-1) didn't have much of a challenge in its 23-3 win over Rutgers last week. The Panthers' only loss this season was a 14-12 setback to Texas A&M on Sept. 7. Pitt has also defeated Ohio (27-14) and UAB (26-20) this year.
The Panthers are led by junior quarterback Rod Rutherford, who has six touchdown passes this season, three of them to top receiver Lamar Slade (18 receptions, 13.5 yards per catch). Junior Brandon Miree is the team's leading rusher with 249 yards.
Toledo (3-1) is coming off a surprisingly easy 38-21 win over UNLV on Sept. 21. The Rockets led at halftime, 24-0, and took a 31-7 lead into the fourth quarter before the Rebels put together a couple of scores.
Senior tailback William Bratton rushed for 81 yards and three touchdowns against UNLV, his second consecutive three-TD game. Bratton now has eight rushing TDs on the season. Quarterback Brian Jones connected on 10 of his first 11 passes against the Rebels. He wound up 11-of-20 for 116 yards.
Toledo's defense was effective against UNLV. The Rockets registered a season-high six sacks and put pressure on both Rebel QBs all night. Linebacker Tom Ward led the charge with a career-high 22 tackles, while free safety Keon Jackson chipped in with an interception, a stripped fumble recovery, three pass deflections and four tackles.
Panthers ready for meat of schedule
By Joe Bendel
TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Monday, September 23, 2002
The Pitt football team is exactly where most expected it to be at this point.
It is sporting a 3-1 record, thanks to victories over lower-level Division I-A teams in Ohio University, Alabama-Birmingham and Rutgers, with its only loss coming at the hands of nationally ranked Texas A&M.
Coach Walt Harris and the rest of the program would have given an arm to sport such a record last year after four games. Remember, the Panthers were 1-3, with a devastating loss to South Florida headlining an early-season free fall.
Based on that information, things are going pretty much as planned record-wise. Very few expected the Panthers to start out 4-0, and, if they did, they were being extremely ambitious.
Now comes the challenging part.
The Panthers play host to Toledo (3-1) of the Mid-American Conference on Saturday at Heinz Field. This could be a swing game, a game that gives Pitt a true gauge of where it stands, with trips to Syracuse and Notre Dame looming before a five-game stretch versus Big East Conference foes to close out the regular season.
A loss to the Rockets could send the Panthers reeling. A win could build up just the right amount of momentum heading into the beefy part of the schedule.
Fact is, a 4-1 record looks a lot better ? and does a lot more for a players' psyche ? than a 3-2 mark.
The first thing the Panthers need to do is wash away the negatives that came from their 23-3 victory over Rutgers on Saturday at Heinz Field. That, of course, won't be easy, because the offense was inefficient, most notably the running game.
Higher-level opponents will have their way with Pitt if it manages just 2.6 yards per carry ? as it did against a bad Rutgers team ? and cannot convert on short-yardage opportunities. The Panthers were 3 of 15 on third-down tries Saturday, in addition to failing on three third-and-one tries and two fourth-and-one opportunities.
If that happens against Toledo, it could be a long day.
The Rockets are coming off a 38-21 victory over UNLV this past Saturday and also boast big victories over Cal-Poly, 44-16, and Eastern Michigan, 65-13. Their lone loss was to Big Ten Conference member Minnesota, 31-21, two weeks ago.
And, oh by the way, Toledo has one of the hottest quarterbacks in the nation in senior Brian Jones, who's completed nearly 70 percent of his passes for 674 yards with three touchdowns, and the fourth-best winning percentage in college football the past two-plus seasons with a 23-4 record. Among those 23 wins was an upset of Penn State two years ago.
In short, Saturday's game will be a test. A big test. A potentially season-altering test.
"We're not worried about things right now," said senior cornerback Torrie Cox, who was part of a defense that dominated Rutgers on Saturday, holding the Scarlet Knights to minus-3 yards rushing, forcing five turnovers, returning a fumble for a touchdown and continuing a season-long streak of not allowing a touchdown pass. "A think a game like (Rutgers) was good for us. We have to get games like this out of the way early because we know how hard things will be. We're struggling a little bit on offense, but they're making the plays when they have to."
Cox was not finished.
"It's about getting the win and we got a win. ? I'm confident in our offense. I think they're going to come around, and they're going to surprise a lot of people."
The next opportunity comes Saturday.
"We're going to get better," said junior quarterback Rod Rutherford, who was 12 of 25 for 255 yards with a touchdown versus the Scarlet Knights. "We have to keep building it up each game. You have to improve as you go."
The Panthers will need to, otherwise, it could be a difficult final eight games.
Notes - Pitt junior linebacker Lewis Moore injured his neck and was held out of the second half of the Rutgers game as a precautionary measure. He is slated to start against Toledo. ... Pitt is one of only two teams in the country that hasn't allowed a passing touchdown this season. Oklahoma is the other. ... The Panthers' kickoff return team ranks No. 1 nationally with an average of 35.33 per runback and senior Torrie Cox is third at 35.43 per return. ... Pitt also ranks No. 1 nationally in pass efficiency defense at 65.6, eighth in interceptions with eight, and ninth in overall pass defense at 134.75 yards yielded per game. ... Other national rankings: Total defense, No. 7 (240 yards per game); turnovers forced, No. 8 (14 total); scoring defense, No. 11 (12.75 points per game).
By Joe Bendel
TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Monday, September 23, 2002
The Pitt football team is exactly where most expected it to be at this point.
It is sporting a 3-1 record, thanks to victories over lower-level Division I-A teams in Ohio University, Alabama-Birmingham and Rutgers, with its only loss coming at the hands of nationally ranked Texas A&M.
Coach Walt Harris and the rest of the program would have given an arm to sport such a record last year after four games. Remember, the Panthers were 1-3, with a devastating loss to South Florida headlining an early-season free fall.
Based on that information, things are going pretty much as planned record-wise. Very few expected the Panthers to start out 4-0, and, if they did, they were being extremely ambitious.
Now comes the challenging part.
The Panthers play host to Toledo (3-1) of the Mid-American Conference on Saturday at Heinz Field. This could be a swing game, a game that gives Pitt a true gauge of where it stands, with trips to Syracuse and Notre Dame looming before a five-game stretch versus Big East Conference foes to close out the regular season.
A loss to the Rockets could send the Panthers reeling. A win could build up just the right amount of momentum heading into the beefy part of the schedule.
Fact is, a 4-1 record looks a lot better ? and does a lot more for a players' psyche ? than a 3-2 mark.
The first thing the Panthers need to do is wash away the negatives that came from their 23-3 victory over Rutgers on Saturday at Heinz Field. That, of course, won't be easy, because the offense was inefficient, most notably the running game.
Higher-level opponents will have their way with Pitt if it manages just 2.6 yards per carry ? as it did against a bad Rutgers team ? and cannot convert on short-yardage opportunities. The Panthers were 3 of 15 on third-down tries Saturday, in addition to failing on three third-and-one tries and two fourth-and-one opportunities.
If that happens against Toledo, it could be a long day.
The Rockets are coming off a 38-21 victory over UNLV this past Saturday and also boast big victories over Cal-Poly, 44-16, and Eastern Michigan, 65-13. Their lone loss was to Big Ten Conference member Minnesota, 31-21, two weeks ago.
And, oh by the way, Toledo has one of the hottest quarterbacks in the nation in senior Brian Jones, who's completed nearly 70 percent of his passes for 674 yards with three touchdowns, and the fourth-best winning percentage in college football the past two-plus seasons with a 23-4 record. Among those 23 wins was an upset of Penn State two years ago.
In short, Saturday's game will be a test. A big test. A potentially season-altering test.
"We're not worried about things right now," said senior cornerback Torrie Cox, who was part of a defense that dominated Rutgers on Saturday, holding the Scarlet Knights to minus-3 yards rushing, forcing five turnovers, returning a fumble for a touchdown and continuing a season-long streak of not allowing a touchdown pass. "A think a game like (Rutgers) was good for us. We have to get games like this out of the way early because we know how hard things will be. We're struggling a little bit on offense, but they're making the plays when they have to."
Cox was not finished.
"It's about getting the win and we got a win. ? I'm confident in our offense. I think they're going to come around, and they're going to surprise a lot of people."
The next opportunity comes Saturday.
"We're going to get better," said junior quarterback Rod Rutherford, who was 12 of 25 for 255 yards with a touchdown versus the Scarlet Knights. "We have to keep building it up each game. You have to improve as you go."
The Panthers will need to, otherwise, it could be a difficult final eight games.
Notes - Pitt junior linebacker Lewis Moore injured his neck and was held out of the second half of the Rutgers game as a precautionary measure. He is slated to start against Toledo. ... Pitt is one of only two teams in the country that hasn't allowed a passing touchdown this season. Oklahoma is the other. ... The Panthers' kickoff return team ranks No. 1 nationally with an average of 35.33 per runback and senior Torrie Cox is third at 35.43 per return. ... Pitt also ranks No. 1 nationally in pass efficiency defense at 65.6, eighth in interceptions with eight, and ninth in overall pass defense at 134.75 yards yielded per game. ... Other national rankings: Total defense, No. 7 (240 yards per game); turnovers forced, No. 8 (14 total); scoring defense, No. 11 (12.75 points per game).
Unreasonable expectations not weighing on Pitt
By Joe Bendel
TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Tuesday, September 24, 2002
All of a sudden, the Pitt football team is supposed to be near the top of the college-football food chain.
At least that's the impression one gets when a 20-point win over Rutgers is perceived as unacceptable, when a six-point win at Alabama-Birmingham is looked upon as disturbing and when a 13-point win over Ohio is shameful.
A number of Pitt followers expects these Panthers to be rolling over opponents, even though there was no indication in spring drills or during fall camp for such a conclusion to be drawn.
Pitt was not included in any major preseason Top 25 poll and was selected to finish fifth in the eight-team Big East Conference.
That's why some members of the Pitt program wonder why a 23-3 victory over a Rutgers team that was decidedly inferior Saturday did not sit well with some. The win improved the Panthers' record to 3-1, as they prepare for their game Saturday against Mid-American Conference powerhouse Toledo (3-1) at Heinz Field.
"I think there's negative reaction to how things have been going, but from my point of view we're doing really well," sophomore nose tackle Vince Crochunis said. "I think we're really close to really blowing up on somebody. It's just a matter of a couple guys here and there getting things down. After Rutgers, we said, 'Hey, a win's a win.' That's how we see it. It doesn't always have to be an impressive one."
Crochunis' logic seems reasonable, considering the number of players Pitt is trying to replace from last season.
It lost All-America wideout Antonio Bryant and his pass-catching partner, R.J. English, to the NFL. It also said goodbye to two-year starting quarterback David Priestley, All-Big East defensive end Bryan Knight, All-Big East free safety Ramon Walker, dependable defensive tackle Joe Conlin and four-year starting kicker Nick Lotz.
Additionally, nose tackle Tyre Young, who fueled a six-game winning streak last season that led to a 7-5 record and a Tangerine Bowl victory, is gone for the year with a broken ankle.
Point is, there's never been much reason to consider these Panthers to be world-beaters, though some seem to expect it. The offense, essentially, has been considered a work in progress since the start of camp, with the loss of three play-makers in veterans Bryant, English and Priestley.
Current quarterback Rod Rutherford is a first-year starter. Ditto for wideouts freshman Larry Fitzgerald and senior Lamar Slade. Also, tailback Brandon Miree sat out last season as a transfer from Alabama and is still trying to adjust, while the two others at the position, sophomores Raymond Kirkley and Marcus Furman, have not emerged after solid freshman seasons.
Predictably, things have not gone smoothly for the offense, which failed on 12 of 15 third-down opportunities and needed a touchdown by the defense to get things jump-started against Rutgers.
All of which brings us to this: Any win for this current crop of Panthers should be acceptable at this point, even if it's not by a wide margin ? particularly until the offense gets its footing.
Harris, who continues an effort to take Pitt from mid-level to high-level, is putting a premium on winning games, not winning big.
"A football's not round, so it's not always going to bounce your way," Harris said. "A win is a win, especially a Big East win. That's why I led off this press conference today with the fact that we're excited about defeating Rutgers. We'd all love to defeat them by more, but at the time, we didn't. But we did do what had to do in order to win the game.
"You can say offensively we played ugly, but we were able to get enough to have a victory. Whether we beat people by this and this, and this and that, I don't think that matters as long as we have more points than they do. It's always gravy when you have a big score. The bottom line is, we need to put Rutgers behind us and put our focus on Toledo. They'll be a formidable opponent. The more we worry about last week, the less well we'll do this week."
And it's pretty certain, Harris and his team will be content with a win Saturday, even if it isn't convincing.
"Nobody should care what it looked like," Crochunis said. "The big thing is getting that 'W.' That's all we're really looking for here, getting the 'Ws.' I don't think people should be disappointed if we're finding ways to win."
By Joe Bendel
TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Tuesday, September 24, 2002
All of a sudden, the Pitt football team is supposed to be near the top of the college-football food chain.
At least that's the impression one gets when a 20-point win over Rutgers is perceived as unacceptable, when a six-point win at Alabama-Birmingham is looked upon as disturbing and when a 13-point win over Ohio is shameful.
A number of Pitt followers expects these Panthers to be rolling over opponents, even though there was no indication in spring drills or during fall camp for such a conclusion to be drawn.
Pitt was not included in any major preseason Top 25 poll and was selected to finish fifth in the eight-team Big East Conference.
That's why some members of the Pitt program wonder why a 23-3 victory over a Rutgers team that was decidedly inferior Saturday did not sit well with some. The win improved the Panthers' record to 3-1, as they prepare for their game Saturday against Mid-American Conference powerhouse Toledo (3-1) at Heinz Field.
"I think there's negative reaction to how things have been going, but from my point of view we're doing really well," sophomore nose tackle Vince Crochunis said. "I think we're really close to really blowing up on somebody. It's just a matter of a couple guys here and there getting things down. After Rutgers, we said, 'Hey, a win's a win.' That's how we see it. It doesn't always have to be an impressive one."
Crochunis' logic seems reasonable, considering the number of players Pitt is trying to replace from last season.
It lost All-America wideout Antonio Bryant and his pass-catching partner, R.J. English, to the NFL. It also said goodbye to two-year starting quarterback David Priestley, All-Big East defensive end Bryan Knight, All-Big East free safety Ramon Walker, dependable defensive tackle Joe Conlin and four-year starting kicker Nick Lotz.
Additionally, nose tackle Tyre Young, who fueled a six-game winning streak last season that led to a 7-5 record and a Tangerine Bowl victory, is gone for the year with a broken ankle.
Point is, there's never been much reason to consider these Panthers to be world-beaters, though some seem to expect it. The offense, essentially, has been considered a work in progress since the start of camp, with the loss of three play-makers in veterans Bryant, English and Priestley.
Current quarterback Rod Rutherford is a first-year starter. Ditto for wideouts freshman Larry Fitzgerald and senior Lamar Slade. Also, tailback Brandon Miree sat out last season as a transfer from Alabama and is still trying to adjust, while the two others at the position, sophomores Raymond Kirkley and Marcus Furman, have not emerged after solid freshman seasons.
Predictably, things have not gone smoothly for the offense, which failed on 12 of 15 third-down opportunities and needed a touchdown by the defense to get things jump-started against Rutgers.
All of which brings us to this: Any win for this current crop of Panthers should be acceptable at this point, even if it's not by a wide margin ? particularly until the offense gets its footing.
Harris, who continues an effort to take Pitt from mid-level to high-level, is putting a premium on winning games, not winning big.
"A football's not round, so it's not always going to bounce your way," Harris said. "A win is a win, especially a Big East win. That's why I led off this press conference today with the fact that we're excited about defeating Rutgers. We'd all love to defeat them by more, but at the time, we didn't. But we did do what had to do in order to win the game.
"You can say offensively we played ugly, but we were able to get enough to have a victory. Whether we beat people by this and this, and this and that, I don't think that matters as long as we have more points than they do. It's always gravy when you have a big score. The bottom line is, we need to put Rutgers behind us and put our focus on Toledo. They'll be a formidable opponent. The more we worry about last week, the less well we'll do this week."
And it's pretty certain, Harris and his team will be content with a win Saturday, even if it isn't convincing.
"Nobody should care what it looked like," Crochunis said. "The big thing is getting that 'W.' That's all we're really looking for here, getting the 'Ws.' I don't think people should be disappointed if we're finding ways to win."
I appreciate your info, and am also a MAC fan. I don't understand why teams like Kent State and BG haven't been as successful in the past. I was recruited by both of those schools and had an opportunity to tour their facilities. I also live in Pittsburgh, and until last year was aware what Pitt had. Those 2 MAC schools have the nicest facilities in the country. I've also been to OU and Miami and they too would've blown Pitt away. Pitt surpasses them now, but their stuff is still impressive.
About Pitt: remember they should've beaten a tough Texas A+M team. They had a TD called back for an inelligible number call. The feeling around Pgh is that Pitt should make a decent Bowl. The defense has been good, but look who've they've played. TA+M doesn't have that good of an offense. The recieving core is young, but word on the street is that they are a very athletic bunch capable of playing like veterans. The runningback position is also missleading. Harris is super hard on his players, and refuses to announce a starter. I played against Furman, and was impressed w/ him(he gained like 200 yrds and 3 TDs against my highschool team. We beat him though) They also have a great transfer from Alabama that everyone is high on, and Raymond Kirkley is a young stud. So even though they've had a different starter each game, its a strength and not a weakness.
The problem is w/ Rutherferd. He was a tremendous talent in highschool, but he never threw the ball. The reason he chose Pitt over other top schools is that Harris was the only one that promised him that he would never be moved from QB. Harris made that promise, even though he runs a west coast offense, because he needed a top recruit. The backup is a stud, but he's only a freshman. Pitt does have another backup that I think is better than Rutherferd, and he may be used if the game is tight and Rod gets hurt.
To sum up this info, I guess I'm trying to say that anything can happen against Toledo. Its like the V-Tech game last year. Pitt exploded on them, won their last games and crushed a good NC State team. Pitt has played shitty(I watched the Rutgers game and wanted to throw up), but they're capable of much more. I can totally see Toledo winning and causing an uproar at Pitt like the S. Florida loss did. I don't think Harris has adjusted to his team yet, and I'll bet they overlook Toledo. Until Harris names a true starter at RB, and possibly switch Rutherferd at QB, I'd bet against Pitt to cover any spread. Once Harris tweaks his team though, Pitt will be a good bet.
About Pitt: remember they should've beaten a tough Texas A+M team. They had a TD called back for an inelligible number call. The feeling around Pgh is that Pitt should make a decent Bowl. The defense has been good, but look who've they've played. TA+M doesn't have that good of an offense. The recieving core is young, but word on the street is that they are a very athletic bunch capable of playing like veterans. The runningback position is also missleading. Harris is super hard on his players, and refuses to announce a starter. I played against Furman, and was impressed w/ him(he gained like 200 yrds and 3 TDs against my highschool team. We beat him though) They also have a great transfer from Alabama that everyone is high on, and Raymond Kirkley is a young stud. So even though they've had a different starter each game, its a strength and not a weakness.
The problem is w/ Rutherferd. He was a tremendous talent in highschool, but he never threw the ball. The reason he chose Pitt over other top schools is that Harris was the only one that promised him that he would never be moved from QB. Harris made that promise, even though he runs a west coast offense, because he needed a top recruit. The backup is a stud, but he's only a freshman. Pitt does have another backup that I think is better than Rutherferd, and he may be used if the game is tight and Rod gets hurt.
To sum up this info, I guess I'm trying to say that anything can happen against Toledo. Its like the V-Tech game last year. Pitt exploded on them, won their last games and crushed a good NC State team. Pitt has played shitty(I watched the Rutgers game and wanted to throw up), but they're capable of much more. I can totally see Toledo winning and causing an uproar at Pitt like the S. Florida loss did. I don't think Harris has adjusted to his team yet, and I'll bet they overlook Toledo. Until Harris names a true starter at RB, and possibly switch Rutherferd at QB, I'd bet against Pitt to cover any spread. Once Harris tweaks his team though, Pitt will be a good bet.
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I also want to mention that Pitt has serious injuries to:
S Corey Humphries Knee Out for the season. 8/8
S Gary Urschler Knee Out for the season. 8/8
NT Tyre Young Ankle (fracture) Out for the season. 9/9
RB Jawan Walker Knee Out indefinitely. 8/27
Toledo has none.
StatFox has them rated equally.
S Corey Humphries Knee Out for the season. 8/8
S Gary Urschler Knee Out for the season. 8/8
NT Tyre Young Ankle (fracture) Out for the season. 9/9
RB Jawan Walker Knee Out indefinitely. 8/27
Toledo has none.
StatFox has them rated equally.
now thats a hell of a Pitt write-up...Thanks man and welcome to the forum
I want to ask you a few questions about the MAC recruiting...but I'll save that for a later time.
Thanks again
I want to ask you a few questions about the MAC recruiting...but I'll save that for a later time.
Thanks again
I also wanted to add that the D-Line is thined out, the O-Line are all returning starters (which doesn't explain why they've been having trouble running the ball), the secondary is decent, but they've had injuries too, and the LB core is led by one of the best in the country.
Rod has gotten better, but the reason Pitt couldn't score against Rutgers was because Rod is terrible at completing on 3rd down.
Rod has gotten better, but the reason Pitt couldn't score against Rutgers was because Rod is terrible at completing on 3rd down.
Football: Pitt hoping its offense can get in gear
Tuesday, September 24, 2002
By Shelly Anderson, Post-Gazette Sports Writer
Bowl Championship Series officials are trying to minimize the importance of margin of victory, and Pitt Coach Walt Harris is, too.
At his weekly news conference yesterday, Harris fielded questions about the stutter-stepping on offense in Saturday's 23-3 victory against Rutgers and why the Panthers (3-1, 1-0 in the Big East) couldn't blow out an obviously less talented team.
After allowing that he would rather talk about his dominant defense or his team's game this week against Toledo (3-1, 1-0 in the Mid-American Conference), Harris said margin of victory is not a concern.
"A win is a win, especially a Big East win," he said. "We would all have loved to beat them by more, but at the time we didn't. But we did do what we had to do in order to win the game. I think offensively we were playing ugly, but we were able to get enough to have a victory.
"It's only gravy when you have a big score, but the bottom line is we need to put Rutgers behind us and focus on Toledo. The more we worry about last week, the less well we're going to do this week."
That doesn't mean some of the shortcomings on offense against the Scarlet Knights will be quickly forgotten.
Although the Panthers passed the ball effectively for 261 yards and a touchdown, difficulty running the ball and moving it by any means in short-yardage situations scuttled several potential scoring drives.
Pitt thought it had found a No. 1 tailback in junior Brandon Miree, a transfer from Alabama. He made his second consecutive start but rushed for just 27 yards on 17 carries against Rutgers and was spelled by sophomores Marcus Furman (seven carries, 22 yards) and Raymond Kirkley (eight carries, 25 yards).
The three are listed as potential starters this week for Toledo, the same as they were when the season opened.
"I think we're going to go out to the practice field and see who executes in practice," Harris said. "Shawn Simms, our running backs coach, knows there's more there than what we're getting. He's going to set the standards high and make sure they reach it. We're looking for a guy to make it happen.
"The bottom line is we've got to run hard. We've got to run through people. Our heads need to be pointed toward the goal line when we finish the run. That's hard running, and we've got to get that. We've got to get a guy who makes the reads, understands the pass protection, understands the routes."
That said, Harris thinks other members of the offense share the blame for the Panthers' running game, which is seventh in the Big East with an average of 112.8 yards a game, ahead of only Rutgers (76.5 yards a game). Pitt is averaging 2.5 yards per carry.
The problem is with "just one guy here, one guy there," Harris said, and that it's especially true in situations such as third-and-2.
"When you don't make short yards, I think it's everybody -- coaches, players. We need to run the ball in order to be the kind of football team we think we can be."
Pitt converted 3 of 15 third downs (20 percent) and neither of two fourth downs against Rutgers. Seven of those failed third-down attempts came with Pitt needing 5 yards or less, and one was a third-and-goal from the 1.
"It's real discouraging," Harris said. "A couple of the ones we had, we had some guys who are not quite understanding what we want. We have to do a better job as a coaching staff. It's not that our players aren't trying.
"It's been something that's plagued us the entire season. It's not like it's just this last game. It's in contrast to last year, when it was almost automatic. This year it's been a lot tougher."
For the season, the Panthers' success rate on third down -- 23 of 63, 37 percent, is similar to that of last year, when they converted 59 of 158 third downs, 37 percent.
They have made first down on 2 of 7 fourth-down attempts this year; they were 2 of 8 last year.
It stood out against Rutgers because the failure to get a first down often came after Pitt had moved across midfield.
Harris said he if were to put together a list of what Pitt needs to do to improve its offensive shortcomings, it would be to call better plays, adjust better on the run and run some people over. He reiterated that Pitt will scale back some on offense to help ensure more success.
In the meantime, he remains upbeat.
"You're not going to score every time you get the ball. You're not going to make four yards every time you run it," Harris said. "But we're thrilled to be at this juncture and to be 3-1 and getting ready to play a team that will be a big challenge for us."
Tuesday, September 24, 2002
By Shelly Anderson, Post-Gazette Sports Writer
Bowl Championship Series officials are trying to minimize the importance of margin of victory, and Pitt Coach Walt Harris is, too.
At his weekly news conference yesterday, Harris fielded questions about the stutter-stepping on offense in Saturday's 23-3 victory against Rutgers and why the Panthers (3-1, 1-0 in the Big East) couldn't blow out an obviously less talented team.
After allowing that he would rather talk about his dominant defense or his team's game this week against Toledo (3-1, 1-0 in the Mid-American Conference), Harris said margin of victory is not a concern.
"A win is a win, especially a Big East win," he said. "We would all have loved to beat them by more, but at the time we didn't. But we did do what we had to do in order to win the game. I think offensively we were playing ugly, but we were able to get enough to have a victory.
"It's only gravy when you have a big score, but the bottom line is we need to put Rutgers behind us and focus on Toledo. The more we worry about last week, the less well we're going to do this week."
That doesn't mean some of the shortcomings on offense against the Scarlet Knights will be quickly forgotten.
Although the Panthers passed the ball effectively for 261 yards and a touchdown, difficulty running the ball and moving it by any means in short-yardage situations scuttled several potential scoring drives.
Pitt thought it had found a No. 1 tailback in junior Brandon Miree, a transfer from Alabama. He made his second consecutive start but rushed for just 27 yards on 17 carries against Rutgers and was spelled by sophomores Marcus Furman (seven carries, 22 yards) and Raymond Kirkley (eight carries, 25 yards).
The three are listed as potential starters this week for Toledo, the same as they were when the season opened.
"I think we're going to go out to the practice field and see who executes in practice," Harris said. "Shawn Simms, our running backs coach, knows there's more there than what we're getting. He's going to set the standards high and make sure they reach it. We're looking for a guy to make it happen.
"The bottom line is we've got to run hard. We've got to run through people. Our heads need to be pointed toward the goal line when we finish the run. That's hard running, and we've got to get that. We've got to get a guy who makes the reads, understands the pass protection, understands the routes."
That said, Harris thinks other members of the offense share the blame for the Panthers' running game, which is seventh in the Big East with an average of 112.8 yards a game, ahead of only Rutgers (76.5 yards a game). Pitt is averaging 2.5 yards per carry.
The problem is with "just one guy here, one guy there," Harris said, and that it's especially true in situations such as third-and-2.
"When you don't make short yards, I think it's everybody -- coaches, players. We need to run the ball in order to be the kind of football team we think we can be."
Pitt converted 3 of 15 third downs (20 percent) and neither of two fourth downs against Rutgers. Seven of those failed third-down attempts came with Pitt needing 5 yards or less, and one was a third-and-goal from the 1.
"It's real discouraging," Harris said. "A couple of the ones we had, we had some guys who are not quite understanding what we want. We have to do a better job as a coaching staff. It's not that our players aren't trying.
"It's been something that's plagued us the entire season. It's not like it's just this last game. It's in contrast to last year, when it was almost automatic. This year it's been a lot tougher."
For the season, the Panthers' success rate on third down -- 23 of 63, 37 percent, is similar to that of last year, when they converted 59 of 158 third downs, 37 percent.
They have made first down on 2 of 7 fourth-down attempts this year; they were 2 of 8 last year.
It stood out against Rutgers because the failure to get a first down often came after Pitt had moved across midfield.
Harris said he if were to put together a list of what Pitt needs to do to improve its offensive shortcomings, it would be to call better plays, adjust better on the run and run some people over. He reiterated that Pitt will scale back some on offense to help ensure more success.
In the meantime, he remains upbeat.
"You're not going to score every time you get the ball. You're not going to make four yards every time you run it," Harris said. "But we're thrilled to be at this juncture and to be 3-1 and getting ready to play a team that will be a big challenge for us."
Good Info
Good Info
Pitt Notebook: Harris wants more consistency from kickers
Tuesday, September 24, 2002
By Shelly Anderson, Post-Gazette Sports Writer
There is only one change Pitt Coach Walt Harris would like to see from his two place-kickers. That would be better consistency.
Asked yesterday if he would consider benching sophomore J.B. Gibboney on extra points in favor of freshman David Abdul, Harris said the Panthers simply are trying to give both players a boost.
"We're going to continue doing what we've done this last week, continue to work hard on their techniques, fundamentals, try to be very supportive of both those guys and try to give them some competition and some excitement in practice and make it more game-like," Harris said, adding that focus is a big issue.
Gibboney is 7 of 10 in extra points. In Pitt's 23-3 victory against Rutgers Saturday, his extra-point attempt hit the right upright. Gibboney also is used for short-range field goals. He is 3 of 4, all from less than 40 yards.
Abdul handles kickoffs and is 2 of 5 in field goals, all from longer than 40 yards.
In addition to its early-practice drills devoted to special teams, Pitt has been calling for "live" field goals in the middle of team drills to give both kickers a chance to work under some pressure. Last week, the sideline players came onto the field to rally around the kickers on some of those live plays.
Receiver leaves team
Receiver Donny Patrick left the team over the weekend, apparently because of a lack of playing time.
Patrick, a 6-foot-2, 215-pound redshirt sophomore, was a touted recruit out of Hazleton and had a good training camp as a freshman in 2000. He redshirted that year then dropped from sight. Last year, he appeared briefly in three games and did not have a catch. He had not played this season.
Harris said the Panthers would assist Patrick in looking for another school where he could get some playing time.
"Donny's been a good person in this program the whole time he's been here, so [we'll do] whatever we can do to help him," Harris said.
Injury report
Corey Humphries, who was penciled in as the starting free safety before a knee injury last spring led to surgery, could return to practice in as little as two weeks. Gary Urschler, expected to be the starter at strong safety before he had surgery after a spring knee injury, is more doubtful for this season.
"We don't know for sure, but we think Corey is a couple of weeks away from getting back to practice," Harris said.
Humphries and Urschler each have a torn anterior cruciate ligament they got in spring drills.
Redshirt freshman Tez Morris (24 tackles, tied for third on the team, plus two passes broken up) has filled in nicely for Humphries.
Sophomore Tyrone Gilliard (16 tackles, a sack and two passes broken up) has settled in at strong safety.
Humphries is a redshirt junior. Urschler is a senior, so it is likely his career is over.
Quick hits
Junior punter Andy Lee was named Big East Conference special teams player of the week. Against Rutgers, he averaged 41.1 yards on seven punts, including a 51-yarder. Two were downed inside the 5. ... In other injury updates: Redshirt junior defensive tackle Darrell McMurray is still having problems after back surgery last winter. "It doesn't look good for him this year," Harris said. Harris is highly optimistic that sophomore nose tackle Tyre Young, who has a broken ankle that he got in his only game this year, will be granted a medical redshirt. The prognosis is still pending for freshman tailback Jawan Walker, who is rehabilitating from a knee injury. ... Harris said he has not spoken with former fullback Dustin Picciotti in some time. Picciotti was forced to retire from football in training camp after recurring post-concussion problems but did enroll in classes this term.
Good Info
Pitt Notebook: Harris wants more consistency from kickers
Tuesday, September 24, 2002
By Shelly Anderson, Post-Gazette Sports Writer
There is only one change Pitt Coach Walt Harris would like to see from his two place-kickers. That would be better consistency.
Asked yesterday if he would consider benching sophomore J.B. Gibboney on extra points in favor of freshman David Abdul, Harris said the Panthers simply are trying to give both players a boost.
"We're going to continue doing what we've done this last week, continue to work hard on their techniques, fundamentals, try to be very supportive of both those guys and try to give them some competition and some excitement in practice and make it more game-like," Harris said, adding that focus is a big issue.
Gibboney is 7 of 10 in extra points. In Pitt's 23-3 victory against Rutgers Saturday, his extra-point attempt hit the right upright. Gibboney also is used for short-range field goals. He is 3 of 4, all from less than 40 yards.
Abdul handles kickoffs and is 2 of 5 in field goals, all from longer than 40 yards.
In addition to its early-practice drills devoted to special teams, Pitt has been calling for "live" field goals in the middle of team drills to give both kickers a chance to work under some pressure. Last week, the sideline players came onto the field to rally around the kickers on some of those live plays.
Receiver leaves team
Receiver Donny Patrick left the team over the weekend, apparently because of a lack of playing time.
Patrick, a 6-foot-2, 215-pound redshirt sophomore, was a touted recruit out of Hazleton and had a good training camp as a freshman in 2000. He redshirted that year then dropped from sight. Last year, he appeared briefly in three games and did not have a catch. He had not played this season.
Harris said the Panthers would assist Patrick in looking for another school where he could get some playing time.
"Donny's been a good person in this program the whole time he's been here, so [we'll do] whatever we can do to help him," Harris said.
Injury report
Corey Humphries, who was penciled in as the starting free safety before a knee injury last spring led to surgery, could return to practice in as little as two weeks. Gary Urschler, expected to be the starter at strong safety before he had surgery after a spring knee injury, is more doubtful for this season.
"We don't know for sure, but we think Corey is a couple of weeks away from getting back to practice," Harris said.
Humphries and Urschler each have a torn anterior cruciate ligament they got in spring drills.
Redshirt freshman Tez Morris (24 tackles, tied for third on the team, plus two passes broken up) has filled in nicely for Humphries.
Sophomore Tyrone Gilliard (16 tackles, a sack and two passes broken up) has settled in at strong safety.
Humphries is a redshirt junior. Urschler is a senior, so it is likely his career is over.
Quick hits
Junior punter Andy Lee was named Big East Conference special teams player of the week. Against Rutgers, he averaged 41.1 yards on seven punts, including a 51-yarder. Two were downed inside the 5. ... In other injury updates: Redshirt junior defensive tackle Darrell McMurray is still having problems after back surgery last winter. "It doesn't look good for him this year," Harris said. Harris is highly optimistic that sophomore nose tackle Tyre Young, who has a broken ankle that he got in his only game this year, will be granted a medical redshirt. The prognosis is still pending for freshman tailback Jawan Walker, who is rehabilitating from a knee injury. ... Harris said he has not spoken with former fullback Dustin Picciotti in some time. Picciotti was forced to retire from football in training camp after recurring post-concussion problems but did enroll in classes this term.
The Post-Gazette is the shit for info man!!!
The Post-Gazette is the shit for info man!!!
Football: Panthers being hurt by listless running game
Monday, September 23, 2002
By Paul Zeise, Post-Gazette Sports Writer
When an offense struggles, the quarterback often gets the blame.
But in Pitt's case, most of the fingers should be pointed at the players lined up in front of quarterback Rod Rutherford, as well as the players lined up behind him.
For the third time in four weeks, there is a tailback controversy.
"I think we are looking for the guy at running back who will give us the best chance," said Pitt Coach Walt Harris after the Panthers used three different running backs in their 23-3 victory at Heinz Field Saturday against Rutgers.
The team's inability to run the ball effectively is probably the biggest surprise of the season because Pitt's running game, bolstered by an experienced offensive line, was supposed to carry the load for the Panthers until the passing game came around.
Instead, the Panthers (3-1) have struggled to run the ball in nearly every game and have started three different tailbacks in four games. The Panthers, who were averaging only 2.5 yards per carry before playing Rutgers, rushed 44 times for only 118 yards (2.9 per carry) against a pedestrian Scarlet Knights defense.
An even more disturbing trend is that the Panthers are struggling in short-yardage situations. The problem, which began in the opener against Ohio, continued against Rutgers and was one of the reasons the team couldn't sustain many scoring drives.
In the first half, four Panthers drives stalled because the team failed to convert third downs of 2 yards or less. Once, Pitt had a first-and-goal from the 1 and failed to score a touchdown. Another time, the team had a fourth-and-1 and was stopped short of a first down.
Harris thought he had solved the problems last week when he installed Brandon Miree as the starting tailback, but Miree rushed 10 times Saturday for only 27 yards and failed on a key fourth-and-1.
"I didn't get into the groove, and I take responsibility for that," Miree said. "I was sitting back too much and reading and not just hitting the hole."
Center Chad Reed said the problem was that Rutgers was bringing a safety up to the clog the holes, but on a few of the plays there seemed to be very few holes for anyone to clog. And fullback Lousaka Polite blamed a general lack of execution for the team's problems.
Harris was asked to assess the offensive line and said, 'I don't think anyone played well."
Wherever the problem lies, everyone agrees it must be corrected soon. After facing Toledo Saturday, Pitt plays Syracuse, Notre Dame, Boston College and Virginia Tech. All but the Toledo and Boston College games will be on the road.
Some improvement
While the running game has struggled, the passing game has shown at least some signs of improvement.
In the first game and half, Rutherford completed only 13 of 32 passes (46 percent) for 123 yards two touchdowns and three interceptions. But in the 10 quarters since then, he has completed 41 of 72 passes (56 percent) for 633 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions.
But Harris is not pleased with the passing game and said the receivers are still dropping too many passes and that he was thinking about scaling back the offense.
Hidden asset
One reason the Panthers' offensive woes haven't hurt their record is because they have one of the top defenses in the country. But another reason is that the defense is often put in good situations by Pitt punter Andy Lee, who has been by far the team's most consistent special teams player. Lee is averaging 44.1 yards per kick , tops in the Big East Conference and ninth nationally. On Saturday, Lee pinned Rutgers inside its 20-yard line five times including twice inside the 5.
Quick kicks
The Panthers are one of only two teams in the country that have yet to give up a touchdown pass. The other is Oklahoma. ... Pitt is ranked first in the country in pass-efficiency defense (65.51), seventh in total defense (240 yards against per game), ninth in pass defense (134.75) and 11th in scoring defense (12.75 points against per game). ...The Panthers didn't have any significant injuries Saturday, although linebacker Lewis Moore missed the second half with a slight neck strain.
The Post-Gazette is the shit for info man!!!
Football: Panthers being hurt by listless running game
Monday, September 23, 2002
By Paul Zeise, Post-Gazette Sports Writer
When an offense struggles, the quarterback often gets the blame.
But in Pitt's case, most of the fingers should be pointed at the players lined up in front of quarterback Rod Rutherford, as well as the players lined up behind him.
For the third time in four weeks, there is a tailback controversy.
"I think we are looking for the guy at running back who will give us the best chance," said Pitt Coach Walt Harris after the Panthers used three different running backs in their 23-3 victory at Heinz Field Saturday against Rutgers.
The team's inability to run the ball effectively is probably the biggest surprise of the season because Pitt's running game, bolstered by an experienced offensive line, was supposed to carry the load for the Panthers until the passing game came around.
Instead, the Panthers (3-1) have struggled to run the ball in nearly every game and have started three different tailbacks in four games. The Panthers, who were averaging only 2.5 yards per carry before playing Rutgers, rushed 44 times for only 118 yards (2.9 per carry) against a pedestrian Scarlet Knights defense.
An even more disturbing trend is that the Panthers are struggling in short-yardage situations. The problem, which began in the opener against Ohio, continued against Rutgers and was one of the reasons the team couldn't sustain many scoring drives.
In the first half, four Panthers drives stalled because the team failed to convert third downs of 2 yards or less. Once, Pitt had a first-and-goal from the 1 and failed to score a touchdown. Another time, the team had a fourth-and-1 and was stopped short of a first down.
Harris thought he had solved the problems last week when he installed Brandon Miree as the starting tailback, but Miree rushed 10 times Saturday for only 27 yards and failed on a key fourth-and-1.
"I didn't get into the groove, and I take responsibility for that," Miree said. "I was sitting back too much and reading and not just hitting the hole."
Center Chad Reed said the problem was that Rutgers was bringing a safety up to the clog the holes, but on a few of the plays there seemed to be very few holes for anyone to clog. And fullback Lousaka Polite blamed a general lack of execution for the team's problems.
Harris was asked to assess the offensive line and said, 'I don't think anyone played well."
Wherever the problem lies, everyone agrees it must be corrected soon. After facing Toledo Saturday, Pitt plays Syracuse, Notre Dame, Boston College and Virginia Tech. All but the Toledo and Boston College games will be on the road.
Some improvement
While the running game has struggled, the passing game has shown at least some signs of improvement.
In the first game and half, Rutherford completed only 13 of 32 passes (46 percent) for 123 yards two touchdowns and three interceptions. But in the 10 quarters since then, he has completed 41 of 72 passes (56 percent) for 633 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions.
But Harris is not pleased with the passing game and said the receivers are still dropping too many passes and that he was thinking about scaling back the offense.
Hidden asset
One reason the Panthers' offensive woes haven't hurt their record is because they have one of the top defenses in the country. But another reason is that the defense is often put in good situations by Pitt punter Andy Lee, who has been by far the team's most consistent special teams player. Lee is averaging 44.1 yards per kick , tops in the Big East Conference and ninth nationally. On Saturday, Lee pinned Rutgers inside its 20-yard line five times including twice inside the 5.
Quick kicks
The Panthers are one of only two teams in the country that have yet to give up a touchdown pass. The other is Oklahoma. ... Pitt is ranked first in the country in pass-efficiency defense (65.51), seventh in total defense (240 yards against per game), ninth in pass defense (134.75) and 11th in scoring defense (12.75 points against per game). ...The Panthers didn't have any significant injuries Saturday, although linebacker Lewis Moore missed the second half with a slight neck strain.
no way
no way
omar give me a break this is not last yrs toledo team lay the pts this one is too easy (critize me all you want but come sunday you shall not)!!!
where the hell are you you are f%^$ing hiding!!! blah
no way
omar give me a break this is not last yrs toledo team lay the pts this one is too easy (critize me all you want but come sunday you shall not)!!!
where the hell are you you are f%^$ing hiding!!! blah
Tricky kicking at Pitt
Heinz Field causes FG, PAT troubles
By RON MUSSELMAN
BLADE SPORTS WRITER
Heinz Field, where the University of Toledo plays Pittsburgh on Saturday, has not been very friendly to college or NFL kickers since it opened last season, no matter what color uniform they wear.
Former Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Kris Brown proved it by missing 12 of 29 field goal attempts, plus two extra points, in the regular season and playoffs last year. Note that Brown is the former kicker. Visiting teams were 7 of 12 on field goals, with one missed conversion.
The curse carried over to the University of Pittsburgh and its opponents.
Panther kickers were 4-of-9 on field goal attempts, and missed one extra point. Opposing teams were 5-of-8 with one missed conversion.
This season NFL kickers are 4-of-5 in field goals and college kickers 9-for-17, with two missed extra points.
All told, pro and college kickers have connected on just 57.5 percent (46 of 80) of their field goal tries in one-plus season on Heinz?s windy field.
That?s 34 botched field goals, not to mention seven extra points, well above norms for those levels of play.
"That?s an awful lot of misses,?? Toledo coach Tom Amstutz said yesterday. "It sounds like a pretty tricky place for kickers.??
Many misses at Heinz Field have come in the open, south end zone, which borders the Allegheny River. That?s where the wind can blow in a different direction every day, as the weather changes.
"I would never put our kicker in a position where he would have to try a kick he?s not capable of making,?? Amstutz said. "When we come out in pre-game warm-ups, I?ll test the field and the conditions and make notes about the distances, and we?ll go from there.??
Rockets kicker Jason Robbins, a red-shirt freshman from Southview, is tied for seventh in the Mid-American Conference in scoring, averaging 7.5 points per game. He has made 3 of 4 field goals and 21 of 23 extra points in four games.
Pitt?s two kickers, sophomore J.B. Gibboney and freshman David Abdul, have struggled.
Abdul, who handles kickoffs and long-range field goals, is 2-of-5 in field goal attempts, all from 40 to 49 yards. Gibboney, who handles extra points and short-range field goals, has made 7 of 10 extra points and 3 of 4 field goals.
"Our kicking game has not lived up to the expectations everybody else has had,?? said Pitt coach Walt Harris. "We?re going to continue doing what we?ve done this last week, continue to work on their techniques, fundamentals, try to be very supportive of both those guys and try to give them some competition and some excitement and make it more game-like [in practice].??
The Rockets? game against Pitt very well could be decided by a special-teams play.
"Special teams are probably the biggest deciding factor in any game,?? UT receiver/returner Dont? Greene said. "If your special teams aren?t clicking, you?re probably going to have a long day.??
Pitt has the most productive kickoff return team in the country, averaging 35.3 yards per return. Senior Torrie Cox, who had a 58-yard return against Rutgers last week, ranks first in the Big East Conference and third nationally with a 35.4-yard average.
"We have to be solid in all areas and we have to make sure we do a good job in our coverages,?? Amstutz said. "They have some very skilled players who have broken big plays as returners. We?ll have to be alert and be ready for that.??
Greene, a senior, ranks third in the MAC and 12th in the country in kickoff returns with a 28.6 average. He also ranks third in the MAC in punt returns (10.0).
"Any time I go out there on the special teams, I?m looking to make a big play,?? Greene said.
Pitt junior Andy Lee ranks first in the Big East and ninth nationally in punting with a 44.1-yard average. He has four kicks of 50 yards or longer, including six inside the 20-yard line.
"He?s been tremendous,?? Harris said. "He?s been able to make the big punts for us in key situations.??
Freshman walk-on Jason Cox has punted seven times for a 41.9 average for the Rockets; junior two-year starter Brandon Hannum, who missed the first three games after injuring his spleen in an off-season jet ski accident, punted three times last week for a 35.3 average.
Heinz Field causes FG, PAT troubles
By RON MUSSELMAN
BLADE SPORTS WRITER
Heinz Field, where the University of Toledo plays Pittsburgh on Saturday, has not been very friendly to college or NFL kickers since it opened last season, no matter what color uniform they wear.
Former Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Kris Brown proved it by missing 12 of 29 field goal attempts, plus two extra points, in the regular season and playoffs last year. Note that Brown is the former kicker. Visiting teams were 7 of 12 on field goals, with one missed conversion.
The curse carried over to the University of Pittsburgh and its opponents.
Panther kickers were 4-of-9 on field goal attempts, and missed one extra point. Opposing teams were 5-of-8 with one missed conversion.
This season NFL kickers are 4-of-5 in field goals and college kickers 9-for-17, with two missed extra points.
All told, pro and college kickers have connected on just 57.5 percent (46 of 80) of their field goal tries in one-plus season on Heinz?s windy field.
That?s 34 botched field goals, not to mention seven extra points, well above norms for those levels of play.
"That?s an awful lot of misses,?? Toledo coach Tom Amstutz said yesterday. "It sounds like a pretty tricky place for kickers.??
Many misses at Heinz Field have come in the open, south end zone, which borders the Allegheny River. That?s where the wind can blow in a different direction every day, as the weather changes.
"I would never put our kicker in a position where he would have to try a kick he?s not capable of making,?? Amstutz said. "When we come out in pre-game warm-ups, I?ll test the field and the conditions and make notes about the distances, and we?ll go from there.??
Rockets kicker Jason Robbins, a red-shirt freshman from Southview, is tied for seventh in the Mid-American Conference in scoring, averaging 7.5 points per game. He has made 3 of 4 field goals and 21 of 23 extra points in four games.
Pitt?s two kickers, sophomore J.B. Gibboney and freshman David Abdul, have struggled.
Abdul, who handles kickoffs and long-range field goals, is 2-of-5 in field goal attempts, all from 40 to 49 yards. Gibboney, who handles extra points and short-range field goals, has made 7 of 10 extra points and 3 of 4 field goals.
"Our kicking game has not lived up to the expectations everybody else has had,?? said Pitt coach Walt Harris. "We?re going to continue doing what we?ve done this last week, continue to work on their techniques, fundamentals, try to be very supportive of both those guys and try to give them some competition and some excitement and make it more game-like [in practice].??
The Rockets? game against Pitt very well could be decided by a special-teams play.
"Special teams are probably the biggest deciding factor in any game,?? UT receiver/returner Dont? Greene said. "If your special teams aren?t clicking, you?re probably going to have a long day.??
Pitt has the most productive kickoff return team in the country, averaging 35.3 yards per return. Senior Torrie Cox, who had a 58-yard return against Rutgers last week, ranks first in the Big East Conference and third nationally with a 35.4-yard average.
"We have to be solid in all areas and we have to make sure we do a good job in our coverages,?? Amstutz said. "They have some very skilled players who have broken big plays as returners. We?ll have to be alert and be ready for that.??
Greene, a senior, ranks third in the MAC and 12th in the country in kickoff returns with a 28.6 average. He also ranks third in the MAC in punt returns (10.0).
"Any time I go out there on the special teams, I?m looking to make a big play,?? Greene said.
Pitt junior Andy Lee ranks first in the Big East and ninth nationally in punting with a 44.1-yard average. He has four kicks of 50 yards or longer, including six inside the 20-yard line.
"He?s been tremendous,?? Harris said. "He?s been able to make the big punts for us in key situations.??
Freshman walk-on Jason Cox has punted seven times for a 41.9 average for the Rockets; junior two-year starter Brandon Hannum, who missed the first three games after injuring his spleen in an off-season jet ski accident, punted three times last week for a 35.3 average.
UT counting on offense to offset Pitt?s rated defense
By RON MUSSELMAN
BLADE SPORTS WRITER
The University of Pittsburgh, which plays in the same city where Steelers Hall-of-Famers Joe Greene, Jack Lambert, Jack Ham and Mel Blount once roamed, has forged one of the top-rated football defenses in the country.
It won?t be confused with the Steel Curtain, but it?s still very sturdy.
Pitt, which plays host to Toledo Saturday, is ranked among the top 10 nationally in five defensive categories. Among the 117 Division I-A schools, the Panthers are first in pass efficiency defense (65.5 rating), tied for fourth in interceptions (eight), tied for seventh in total defense (240 yards per game), tied for eighth in turnovers (14) and ninth in passing defense (134.8 average).
"Our defense has been very solid for us all year," Pitt coach Walt Harris said yesterday.
The Panthers (3-1) have held two of their four opponents to fewer than 100 yards passing, and are one of only two teams that have not allowed a touchdown pass. Oklahoma is the other.
"Defensively they?re very physical up front," Toledo coach Tom Amstutz said. "They have three outstanding, veteran linebackers who are as good as any in the country. They have an All-American prospect at cornerback.
"They?re as good as any defense in the country right now."
Pitt held hapless Rutgers to minus-three yards rushing and 167 total yards of offense Saturday, while forcing five turnovers and returning a fumble for a touchdown in a 23-3 Big East Conference victory.
However, the Panthers have not faced an offense as explosive as Toledo?s quick-strike attack. The Rockets (3-1) have scored on their opening drive in each of their four games, marching 75, 19, 69 and 57 yards.
The Rockets rank 11th in the country in scoring offense (42.0). Quarterback Brian Jones ranks 12th in passing efficiency with a 154.5 rating, and tailback William Bratton is averaging 94.2 yards per game and is tied for seventh nationally in scoring, averaging two touchdowns per game.
"Toledo presents a major challenge to us," Harris said. "They are outstanding on offense."
"This will definitely be the best defense we?ve faced so far, and we?re looking forward to the challenge," Jones said. "They have a lot of talent on defense but we have a lot of confidence in each other and we feel we can move the ball and make things happen against anybody."
Pitt?s defense has had to be good, because its offense has been stuck in reverse for most of the year. The Panthers, 18-0 all-time against Mid-American Conference schools, have started three tailbacks in the first four games. They are averaging just 112.8 yards per game on the ground and 2.5 yards per rush.
Against Rutgers, the Panthers were 3-for-15 on third-down opportunities, lost two fumbles and failed to convert four times in short-yardage situations.
"Offensively, we had a rough game," Harris said. "Give a lot of credit to Rutgers. We need to do a better job on offense if we?re going to be the kind of football team we need to be."
Run defense has not been one of Toledo?s strengths. The Rockets are tied for 86th in the country, allowing 174.5 yards per game. They have allowed three straight opposing players - two running backs and a quarterback - to rush for 100 yards or more, and that hadn?t happened since 1998, a span of more than 40 games.
Harris is well aware of the fact that the last time Toledo played in Pennsylvania, two years ago, the Rockets upset Penn State 24-6.
"We watched that game in preparation for our game, and the thing that impressed me most about Toledo was the way they were moving the ball up and down the field against Penn State," Harris said. "And they weren?t really excited about it. It looked like standard operating procedure.
"To play up there against Penn State, you?d think a team from the MAC or from any league, would be excited about their results. They just knocked them out. It was like it was supposed to happen."
Toledo is 26-4 in its last 30 games and all four losses have come on the road.
"I recognize how good they are," said Harris, whose team has won nine of its last 10 games. "Our challenge, when you?re not playing in a Big East game, is to make sure that our players have the necessary respect. You win 10 games two years in a row, and win your bowl game, that lets you know this group of players and program is tremendous."
By RON MUSSELMAN
BLADE SPORTS WRITER
The University of Pittsburgh, which plays in the same city where Steelers Hall-of-Famers Joe Greene, Jack Lambert, Jack Ham and Mel Blount once roamed, has forged one of the top-rated football defenses in the country.
It won?t be confused with the Steel Curtain, but it?s still very sturdy.
Pitt, which plays host to Toledo Saturday, is ranked among the top 10 nationally in five defensive categories. Among the 117 Division I-A schools, the Panthers are first in pass efficiency defense (65.5 rating), tied for fourth in interceptions (eight), tied for seventh in total defense (240 yards per game), tied for eighth in turnovers (14) and ninth in passing defense (134.8 average).
"Our defense has been very solid for us all year," Pitt coach Walt Harris said yesterday.
The Panthers (3-1) have held two of their four opponents to fewer than 100 yards passing, and are one of only two teams that have not allowed a touchdown pass. Oklahoma is the other.
"Defensively they?re very physical up front," Toledo coach Tom Amstutz said. "They have three outstanding, veteran linebackers who are as good as any in the country. They have an All-American prospect at cornerback.
"They?re as good as any defense in the country right now."
Pitt held hapless Rutgers to minus-three yards rushing and 167 total yards of offense Saturday, while forcing five turnovers and returning a fumble for a touchdown in a 23-3 Big East Conference victory.
However, the Panthers have not faced an offense as explosive as Toledo?s quick-strike attack. The Rockets (3-1) have scored on their opening drive in each of their four games, marching 75, 19, 69 and 57 yards.
The Rockets rank 11th in the country in scoring offense (42.0). Quarterback Brian Jones ranks 12th in passing efficiency with a 154.5 rating, and tailback William Bratton is averaging 94.2 yards per game and is tied for seventh nationally in scoring, averaging two touchdowns per game.
"Toledo presents a major challenge to us," Harris said. "They are outstanding on offense."
"This will definitely be the best defense we?ve faced so far, and we?re looking forward to the challenge," Jones said. "They have a lot of talent on defense but we have a lot of confidence in each other and we feel we can move the ball and make things happen against anybody."
Pitt?s defense has had to be good, because its offense has been stuck in reverse for most of the year. The Panthers, 18-0 all-time against Mid-American Conference schools, have started three tailbacks in the first four games. They are averaging just 112.8 yards per game on the ground and 2.5 yards per rush.
Against Rutgers, the Panthers were 3-for-15 on third-down opportunities, lost two fumbles and failed to convert four times in short-yardage situations.
"Offensively, we had a rough game," Harris said. "Give a lot of credit to Rutgers. We need to do a better job on offense if we?re going to be the kind of football team we need to be."
Run defense has not been one of Toledo?s strengths. The Rockets are tied for 86th in the country, allowing 174.5 yards per game. They have allowed three straight opposing players - two running backs and a quarterback - to rush for 100 yards or more, and that hadn?t happened since 1998, a span of more than 40 games.
Harris is well aware of the fact that the last time Toledo played in Pennsylvania, two years ago, the Rockets upset Penn State 24-6.
"We watched that game in preparation for our game, and the thing that impressed me most about Toledo was the way they were moving the ball up and down the field against Penn State," Harris said. "And they weren?t really excited about it. It looked like standard operating procedure.
"To play up there against Penn State, you?d think a team from the MAC or from any league, would be excited about their results. They just knocked them out. It was like it was supposed to happen."
Toledo is 26-4 in its last 30 games and all four losses have come on the road.
"I recognize how good they are," said Harris, whose team has won nine of its last 10 games. "Our challenge, when you?re not playing in a Big East game, is to make sure that our players have the necessary respect. You win 10 games two years in a row, and win your bowl game, that lets you know this group of players and program is tremendous."
The Sports Network
DATE & TIME: Saturday, September 28th, 1:30 p.m. (et)
FACTS & STATS: Site: Heinz Field (65,000) -- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Television: None. Home Record: Toledo 2-0, Pittsburgh 2-1. Away Record: Toledo 1-1, Pittsburgh 1-0. Neutral Record: Toledo 0-0, Pittsburgh 0-0. Conference Record: Toledo 1-0, Pittsburgh 1-0. Series Record: First-ever meeting.
GAME NOTES: A pair of 3-1 teams hook up on Saturday afternoon as the Pittsburgh Panthers play host to the Toledo Rockets in a non-conference duel at Heinz Field. The Rockets registered an impressive 38-21 victory over UNLV last week, one week after falling to Minnesota in the team's only loss of the season. The defending MAC champions are playing their last non-conference game of the season before focusing solely on league action the rest of the way. The Panthers were also in action last week and opened their Big East schedule with a 23-3 victory over Rutgers. The win was Pitt's 10th in its last 11 games, as the club closed out the season last year with a seven-game winning streak. The Panthers are aiming to improve to 4-1 for the second time in Walt Harris' tenure in the Steel City. Toledo and Pittsburgh have never met in football, but Pittsburgh is an impressive 18-0 against MAC schools all-time. The Panthers are facing their second MAC foe of the season after taking on Ohio back on August 31st.
The Rockets handled UNLV with surprising ease last week, and built a 24-0 halftime lead before the Rebels mounted any kind of a challenge. William Bratton led the way for Toledo with 81 yards rushing and three touchdowns, as the Rockets mustered just 257 yards of total offense, but still managed to score 31 offensive points. Brian Jones completed 11-of-20 passes for 116 yards in the victory, and was key to the first half success of the club as he completed 10-of-11 passes to start the game. Bratton is off to a fine start on the season, as he has gained 377 yards over the first four games to rank near the top of the MAC in rushing. Jones also has been steady over the first month of the season, as the senior has completed 69.2 percent of his passes for an average of 168.5 ypg with three touchdowns. Even more importantly to the Rockets is the fact that Jones has attempted 78 passes without an interception this season. The Toledo attack has averaged 435.2 ypg of total offense and averages 42 ppg. The Rockets mammoth offensive line averages 320 pounds per starter and has allowed just two sacks this season.
While the Rocket offense is always counted on to put up big numbers, the Toledo defense also impressed last week. Toledo held the Rebels scoreless in the first half, and limited UNLV to just seven points over the first three quarters of action. The Rockets recovered a key fumble and came up with a timely interception, while also adding a season-high six sacks in the victory. Linebacker Tom Ward had a career day as he led the squad with 22 tackles. UNLV did manage 472 total yards, but many of those came after the game was already out of reach. Linebacker David Gardner leads Toledo with 49 tackles on the season, while the team has also posted some impressive statistics in the early going as the Rockets have 11 sacks and seven interceptions over the first four games. Opponents have rushed for an average of 174.5 ypg this season, and have accumulated 344.5 ypg of total offense.
Pittsburgh shook off a sluggish start last week to overcome Rutgers, as the Panther offense could only muster a 19-yard field goal in the first half. The offense did manage to find the end zone twice in the second half and was able to cruise to the easy victory. Rod Rutherford completed 12-of-25 passes for 255 yards with one touchdown in the win, but the Panthers could only manage 110 yards rushing on 44 carries. Roosevelt Bynes led the receiving corps with three grabs for 69 yards, as the team tallied 371 total yards on the day. Rutherford has been up and down this season, as he has completed 51.9 percent of his passes for 189 ypg along with six touchdowns and five interceptions. The club has yet to find an answer in the rushing game, as Brandon Miree leads all ground gainers with 249 yards, but is averaging just 3.5 ypc. Lamar Slade leads all receivers with 18 catches for 243 yards, as Pittsburgh averages 192.2 ypg though the air and another 112.8 ypg on the ground. The offensive line has been worrisome, however, as the unit has allowed 13 sacks through the first four contests.
The defense is what won last week's contest for Pittsburgh, as the Panthers were able to completely shut down Rutgers' (already) anemic offense. The Scarlet Knights finished the game with minus-3 yards rushing and completed just 19-of-47 passes for 167 yards with two interceptions. Rutgers could only muster 13 first downs in the tilt. Linebacker Gerald Hayes was the star of the unit, as he scooped up a fumble and returned it eight yards for the game's first touchdown in the second quarter. Hayes also added a team-high nine tackles, including two TFL's. Defensive end Brian Guzek also had a banner day, posting six stops, including three TFL's with one sack. Hayes leads the team in tackles with 38 on the season, while Shawntae Spencer has recorded three interceptions already. The defense has shown a knack for forcing turnovers this season, as the Panthers have recovered six fumbles and have come up with eight interceptions. Opponents are passing for just 134.8 ypg this season, and gaining an average of only 240 ypg against the Panthers. Starting linebacker Lewis Moore is probable for Saturday's game as he recovers from a neck injury sustained against Rutgers.
This should be a very entertaining battle between two rather evenly matched teams. Both earned bowl bids last season and have the same aspirations again in 2002. Toledo's high-powered attack is always exciting to watch, but Pittsburgh poses its toughest challenge of the year thus far. The game should come down to the wire, but the difference here will be Pittsburgh's inability to score against the Rocket defense. The Panthers see their undefeated record against the MAC come to an end as Toledo walks away from Heinz Field with a hard-fought victory.
Sports Network Predicted Outcome: Toledo 34, Pittsburgh 27
DATE & TIME: Saturday, September 28th, 1:30 p.m. (et)
FACTS & STATS: Site: Heinz Field (65,000) -- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Television: None. Home Record: Toledo 2-0, Pittsburgh 2-1. Away Record: Toledo 1-1, Pittsburgh 1-0. Neutral Record: Toledo 0-0, Pittsburgh 0-0. Conference Record: Toledo 1-0, Pittsburgh 1-0. Series Record: First-ever meeting.
GAME NOTES: A pair of 3-1 teams hook up on Saturday afternoon as the Pittsburgh Panthers play host to the Toledo Rockets in a non-conference duel at Heinz Field. The Rockets registered an impressive 38-21 victory over UNLV last week, one week after falling to Minnesota in the team's only loss of the season. The defending MAC champions are playing their last non-conference game of the season before focusing solely on league action the rest of the way. The Panthers were also in action last week and opened their Big East schedule with a 23-3 victory over Rutgers. The win was Pitt's 10th in its last 11 games, as the club closed out the season last year with a seven-game winning streak. The Panthers are aiming to improve to 4-1 for the second time in Walt Harris' tenure in the Steel City. Toledo and Pittsburgh have never met in football, but Pittsburgh is an impressive 18-0 against MAC schools all-time. The Panthers are facing their second MAC foe of the season after taking on Ohio back on August 31st.
The Rockets handled UNLV with surprising ease last week, and built a 24-0 halftime lead before the Rebels mounted any kind of a challenge. William Bratton led the way for Toledo with 81 yards rushing and three touchdowns, as the Rockets mustered just 257 yards of total offense, but still managed to score 31 offensive points. Brian Jones completed 11-of-20 passes for 116 yards in the victory, and was key to the first half success of the club as he completed 10-of-11 passes to start the game. Bratton is off to a fine start on the season, as he has gained 377 yards over the first four games to rank near the top of the MAC in rushing. Jones also has been steady over the first month of the season, as the senior has completed 69.2 percent of his passes for an average of 168.5 ypg with three touchdowns. Even more importantly to the Rockets is the fact that Jones has attempted 78 passes without an interception this season. The Toledo attack has averaged 435.2 ypg of total offense and averages 42 ppg. The Rockets mammoth offensive line averages 320 pounds per starter and has allowed just two sacks this season.
While the Rocket offense is always counted on to put up big numbers, the Toledo defense also impressed last week. Toledo held the Rebels scoreless in the first half, and limited UNLV to just seven points over the first three quarters of action. The Rockets recovered a key fumble and came up with a timely interception, while also adding a season-high six sacks in the victory. Linebacker Tom Ward had a career day as he led the squad with 22 tackles. UNLV did manage 472 total yards, but many of those came after the game was already out of reach. Linebacker David Gardner leads Toledo with 49 tackles on the season, while the team has also posted some impressive statistics in the early going as the Rockets have 11 sacks and seven interceptions over the first four games. Opponents have rushed for an average of 174.5 ypg this season, and have accumulated 344.5 ypg of total offense.
Pittsburgh shook off a sluggish start last week to overcome Rutgers, as the Panther offense could only muster a 19-yard field goal in the first half. The offense did manage to find the end zone twice in the second half and was able to cruise to the easy victory. Rod Rutherford completed 12-of-25 passes for 255 yards with one touchdown in the win, but the Panthers could only manage 110 yards rushing on 44 carries. Roosevelt Bynes led the receiving corps with three grabs for 69 yards, as the team tallied 371 total yards on the day. Rutherford has been up and down this season, as he has completed 51.9 percent of his passes for 189 ypg along with six touchdowns and five interceptions. The club has yet to find an answer in the rushing game, as Brandon Miree leads all ground gainers with 249 yards, but is averaging just 3.5 ypc. Lamar Slade leads all receivers with 18 catches for 243 yards, as Pittsburgh averages 192.2 ypg though the air and another 112.8 ypg on the ground. The offensive line has been worrisome, however, as the unit has allowed 13 sacks through the first four contests.
The defense is what won last week's contest for Pittsburgh, as the Panthers were able to completely shut down Rutgers' (already) anemic offense. The Scarlet Knights finished the game with minus-3 yards rushing and completed just 19-of-47 passes for 167 yards with two interceptions. Rutgers could only muster 13 first downs in the tilt. Linebacker Gerald Hayes was the star of the unit, as he scooped up a fumble and returned it eight yards for the game's first touchdown in the second quarter. Hayes also added a team-high nine tackles, including two TFL's. Defensive end Brian Guzek also had a banner day, posting six stops, including three TFL's with one sack. Hayes leads the team in tackles with 38 on the season, while Shawntae Spencer has recorded three interceptions already. The defense has shown a knack for forcing turnovers this season, as the Panthers have recovered six fumbles and have come up with eight interceptions. Opponents are passing for just 134.8 ypg this season, and gaining an average of only 240 ypg against the Panthers. Starting linebacker Lewis Moore is probable for Saturday's game as he recovers from a neck injury sustained against Rutgers.
This should be a very entertaining battle between two rather evenly matched teams. Both earned bowl bids last season and have the same aspirations again in 2002. Toledo's high-powered attack is always exciting to watch, but Pittsburgh poses its toughest challenge of the year thus far. The game should come down to the wire, but the difference here will be Pittsburgh's inability to score against the Rocket defense. The Panthers see their undefeated record against the MAC come to an end as Toledo walks away from Heinz Field with a hard-fought victory.
Sports Network Predicted Outcome: Toledo 34, Pittsburgh 27
going to give you and everyone else here a tip pitt wins this game by 10+ points take it or not thats up to you.
