Pitt Football Looking To Capitalize On Momentum From Virginia Tech Victory
PITTSBURGH (93-7 The FAN) - Pitt football players have had big wins during Head Coach Paul Chryst's tenure, but it's been following those up that has been a challenge as the Panthers host 5-2 Georgia Tech Saturday at 3:30 p.m. on 93.7 the Fan.
The Panthers are coming off an upset of Virginia Tech, while the Yellow Jackets have lost two straight.
"I was proud of the effort of the guys on Thursday night," Chryst said. "I'm looking forward to playing again. It seems like we've had a little bit of time off."
This is the only game on the Pitt schedule this year where they will face an option attack and it should be quite a battle. Georgia Tech averages 306 yards a game on the ground, which is fourth in the nation. While the Panthers defense is allowing just 111 rushing yards per game.
"Anytime you're playing against option football, you've got to cover all of the options, so everyone has to play really disciplined," Chryst said. "That's hard to do if your eyes get wrong. You start looking at—maybe not your key—but trying to find the ball. Everyone has to truly play their assignment. You have to be disciplined in that, and that gives you a chance."
Last year, the Yellow Jackets ran for 276 yards in a 21-10 win, despite six tackles for loss, a sack and two forced fumbles by Aaron Donald.
"I thought there were some guys that played well [last year], but [Aaron Donald] was phenomenal that game. We had some guys. There were a lot of times where we did some good things, but we didn't come away with a win down there. But we had some guys do some good things, and they've got to see that and learn from it. None of that carries over."
Panthers are currently tied for first in the ACC Coastal Division with Duke and Virginia, and all of the other teams are only a game back. Chryst hoping his players are studying the game-plan, rather than the standings.
"I think we've got to focus on this week," Chryst said. "All of those things will come into play if you take care of your business. None of it matters if you don't play well, and that's in having a good week of preparation. You've just got to take each week as it comes. It's a big week."
ACC announced the Duke game at Pitt on Nov. 1 will kick at noon.
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