Pitt’s Luck Runs Out In Close Loss to Miami

Pitt football entered Week Nine with high hopes, but a tough loss to Miami showed that this team can’t continue relying on luck.

With a chance to improve to 6-2 and riding a four-game winning streak, Pitt entered their matchup against Miami with high hopes. Between an aggressive defense and an offense that has shown flashes, Pitt is a complete team, and the hope was that their consistency would lead to a win. Miami, a group that has had some big wins and some ugly losses, has undeniable talent, but the hope was that their inconsistency would come through, and Pitt would take advantage. Unfortunately, Pitt’s luck ran out, and the result was an ugly loss.

When analyzing this loss, it’s evident that Pitt’s offense deserves the bulk of the blame. Against a talented Miami defense, quarterback Kenny Pickett played an ugly game. With two interceptions and a 56% completion percentage, Pickett just never looked comfortable. He often panicked under pressure, and in a game where Miami defensive lineman Gregory Rousseau had three sacks, Pickett was constantly rushing throws and making mental mistakes.

Though Pickett was ineffective, he received almost no help from a running game that has been a disappointment all season long. Todd Sibley Jr.showed some explosiveness on his four carries, but  A.J Davis continued his rough season to the tune of three yards per carry. The final totals aren’t horrible with just under 180 rushing yards, but far too often, Pitt was stuffed on the ground, and it derailed the entire offense.

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On a positive note, Pitt’s defense continued to play well. Miami’s offense isn’t the most explosive group out there, but in holding the unit to just 16 points, Pitt’s defense gave this team a chance to win. Yes, the last-minute touchdown was a significant letdown, but at the end of the day, this defense played a good enough game to win.

Pitt football has enjoyed some major success so far this season, but with several close wins in a row heading into this week, their success was built on a precarious foundation. With that said, perhaps this loss will serve as a bit of a wake-up call. Pitt’s luck finally ran out against Miami, but after a close loss, maybe this adversity will lead to big things moving forward.