Pitt vs. Virginia Tech: Preview, Prediction, TV and more
By Matt Shetler
Keys for Virginia Tech
Oct 5, 2013; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies quarterback Logan Thomas (3) leaves the field with the ball after the game. The Hokies defeated the Tar Heels 27-17 at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
1. Protect against the big play: It’s as simple for Virginia Tech as shutting down Street (111.25 yards per game) and Boyd (106.25). If they limit the impact of Pitt’s impressive duo, the Panthers likely won’t have the weapons to pull off a win.
2. Special Teams: The Hokies are usually outstanding when it comes to their special teams, but have had some uncharacteristic breakdowns as of late. Their kickers have combined to miss six field goals and two point-after attempts. In addition they haven’t got much of an impact from their return units and their coverage teams have struggled. If “Beamer Ball” returns and the Hokies get a special team’s score, it could go a long way to a Virginia Tech win.
3. Pressure Tom Savage: Savage is coming off a concussion and it will be interesting to see how much heat the Hokies throw at him. Given the fact that he has the tendency to to take sacks and turn the ball over this season, I would expect a ton of pressure. Similar to how Donald has to be big for Pitt, I would expect Bud Foster to have a similar type of impact for the Hokies.
Prediction: Pitt can win this game if they find a way to get big performances from both the offense and defense on the same day. But being that we haven’t seen that yet this season, I have a hard time thinking it will happen on Saturday on the road, in front of what usually is a great Virginia Tech crowd. The Virginia Tech defense will be the difference as the Hokies haven’t allowed more than 21 points in the past five weeks. Pitt will keep it close but ultimately will fall short. Virginia Tech 24, Pitt 20.