There wasn't much hype surrounding the Pitt program heading into last season, but they burst onto the scene with 10 wins thanks in large part to little known RB Dion Lewis. Dave Wannstedt had a successful 2008 and has gone 17-5 the past two regular seasons. While the Panthers look to take a step or two back this year on paper, don't be surprised if this team exceeds expectations once again. They practically gave away the Big East title a year ago losing their final two games by a combined four points. They are set for redemption and are +250 to take home the Big East title. View the full conference breakdown in our 2010 Big East college football predictions article. Offense:Pitt's offense has adapted nicely to OC Frank Cignetti's pro style offense. Points per game were up by five from the previous season and they gained close to 400 yards per contest. Tino Sunseri will take over for the departed Bill Stull under center. The Sophomore completed 10 of 17 passes for two score s in mop up duty. He will be the beneficiary of handing the ball to one of the best RBs in the nation Dion Lewis. The lightly recruited Lewis gained 1800 yards scoring 17 tds as a true Freshman. Carrying the load last year was no problem as his 325 carries proved so, but his workload should increase even more in year 2 placing concerns on him staying healthy. Opposing defenses will not be taken by surprise in 2010 with many game plans focusing on Lewis. WR Jon Baldwin is another playmaker that is capable of making big plays in the passing game for the new QB. The Junior cemented his status as one of the top receivers in the Big East catching 57 balls for 1100 yards and eight tds. Losing All-American TE Dorin Dickerson hurts the offense, but look for Virginia transfer Andrew Devlin or Sophomore Mike Cruz to step in. Panther faithful hope that Lewis can provide another year of fireworks behind an offensive line that gels quickly and a quarterback that takes care of the ball. D efense:
The defensive side of the ball has been blessed with outstanding middle linebacker play the past five years that has resulted in first team All Big East selections each year. Sophomore Dan Mason will look to continue the trend. OLB Max Gruder recorded a team high 91 tackles and will be one of the leaders on defense. Versatile second team Big East selection Dom DeCicco tallied 88 tackles from his safety position contributing three of the teams 15 interceptions collected in 2009. Offensive lines will struggle to continue two talented ends that the Panthers possess. Greg Romeus and Jabaal Sheard have combined for 30 career sacks in their Pitt career. The corners have plenty of game experience and the DTs are space eaters up front. This squad needs to play even better than last year if the team wants to avenge a disappointing end to last year's regular season. Prediction: Pitt faces formidable challenges in their non-conference run traveling to Utah on Sept. 2nd and hosting Mi ami (FL) on the 23rd. Their Big East schedule is back loaded with many of the important match-ups. They will host only three conference games and must travel to Connecticut and Notre Dame. I see a 7 win season for the Panthers mostly due to the inexperience at quarterback and the road heavy schedule.
For a complete look at the Big East Conference, check out Jimmy Boyd's 2010 Big East predictions. If you plan on making money betting on college football this season, be sure to check out our live college football odds feed each week.
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