North Carolina vs. Pitt: Preview, Prediction, TV Info and more
Keys for North Carolina
Nov 9, 2013; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback
Marquise Williams(2) catches a touchdown pass from wide receiver
Quinshad Davis(14) (not pictured) in the first quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
1. Take Away the Pass:North Carolina’s pass defense has all of a sudden become one of the Tar Heels’ major strengths. In the past four games, UNC has allowed just one passing touchdown and has intercepted eight passes. A lot of their success in the secondary starts up front though, where defensive endKareem Martinand UNC’s rotation of defensive linemen have been hounding opposing quarterbacks.
2. More Marquise Williams:He is the North Carolina offense, and he did not disappoint last week in throwing, rushing and catching touchdowns for a win over Virginia and is a big reason why the Tar Heels are riding a three-game win streak. Williams is athletic and has a live arm and has good weapons around him. He is dangerous and if he gets going early, it could be a big day for the Tar Heels.
3. Get off to a quick start:The Panthers are 4-1 at Heinz Field this season, with their only loss coming at the hands of Florida State. I don’t anticipate a loud or even big crowd, but the Tar Heels can’t dig them themselves an early hole on the road or they will be in trouble. It’s a matter of Williams making big plays early and riding their defense the rest of the way.
Prediction:The playmaking ability of Williams should scare Pitt, as should the way the Tar Heels have been playing defensively. However this one is at Heinz Field and I like Pitt to do just enough at home to come out with a win.Pitt 27, North Carolina 24