Pitt vs. Navy: Preview, Prediction, TV and more

Keys for Pitt:

1. Stop the Run: The Midshipmen rank among the country’s most prolific rushing teams. Navy averages 304.2 rush yards per game to rank sixth nationally. In their double-overtime loss at Toledo last week, the Midshipmen piled up 419 yards and five touchdowns on the ground.

Sep 28, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers defensive lineman

(97) during the fourth quarter against the Virginia Cavaliers at Heinz Field. Pittsburgh defeated Virginia 14-3. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Aaron Donald will be big if he can be a fixture in the Navy backfield. The nation’s active leader in sacks (26.5), leads the country in sacks per game (1.33 avg.) and tackles for loss per game (2.08 avg.). He and the Pitt front seven needs to set the tone from the beginning

2. Get out early: It’s as simple for Pitt as using their weapons and getting an early lead. They need to make the Midshipmen throw the football. If the Panthers get a big lead and force Navy into situations where they have to throw the football a lot in the second half it will go a long way towards a Pitt victory.

3. Run the football: With James Connor returning and after Isaac Bennett’s monster game a week ago, it will be nice to see the Panthers continue to produce on the ground. Not only will it help them have a balanced attack, but it will take some pressure of Savage in the process.