It’s the time of year that everyone makes a prediction of a team a record so here goes for me. Before I go through a game by game prediction, I want to give a few thoughts on specific areas of the team.
In my opinion, the strength of the 2016 Panthers will be on the lines, both offensive and defense. I should clarify that, I think Pitt’s starting offensive line will be really good. But if they sustain a major injury or two, I’m not totally confident in the depth. Let’s hope that doesn’t become an issue.
As far as the defensive line, I think they’re solid and will be very productive. With talent like Ejuan Price, Dewayne Hendrix, Keyshon Camp, Amir Watts, James Folston, Shakir Soto, Rori Blair, Rashad Weaver and Allen Edwards, Pitt will get to the quarterback and make plays.
Offensively, Pitt will be efficient and should dominate time of possession most games. Due to a strong offensive line, a senior quarterback and true running back depth — James Conner, Qadree Ollison, Darrin Hall, Chawntez Moss, Rachid Ibrahim — Pitt should eat up a lot of clock, which will keep the defense fresh and on the field less.
I get a lot of questions with fans having concerns over Nate Peterman, honestly, I zero doubts about how he’ll perform. Too many people forget that last season was his first playing time in a couple seasons. Some rust and growing pains were to be expected. I expect a strong year from Peterman which could lead to him being selected in next April’s NFL Draft.
Ok, here goes with my game-game picks for Pitt’s 2016 schedule:
Villanova – W
Penn State – W
at Oklahoma State – L
at North Carolina – W
Marshall – W (be careful though)
Georgia Tech – W
at Virgina – W
Virginia Tech – W
at Miami (FL) – L
at Clemson – L
Duke – W
Syracuse – W
2016 Record: 9-3 (6-2 ACC)
