On this week's Peak at the Panthers, Cale Berger and Chris Peak recap No. 24 Pitt's win over Louisville last week, and preview their matchup with NC State this Saturday.
Heading into the Louisville game, Cale and Chris both believed the Pitt offense needed to get rolling and create big plays against the porous Cardinals defense. Unfortunately, turnovers and penalties continued to make it difficult for the Panthers to sustain drives. Both feel it is paramount for the Pitt offense to return to the efficient, stellar form it showed in the opener against Austin Peay.
Facing a similarly poor defense against the Wolfpack this week, the guys agree that it's now or never for the offense to start scoring some points and imposing their will.
On a positive note, Cale expressed how impressed he has been with quarterback Kenny Pickett this season, who looks confident and comfortable in his second season with offensive coordinator Mark Whipple. Pickett is completing 66% of his passes this year, but the percentage jumps to an astounding 79% when you factor out the team's 12 drops.
Chris has also noticed Pickett's improvements. but still believes he needs to do a better job remaining composed in the pocket under pressure.
As for the Panthers and the Wolfpack on Saturday, they guys both want to see improvement and consistency on the offensive side. While Chris still wants to see more explosive plays, Cale is more concerned with them eliminating turnover after they had multiple against Louisville. NC State's defense does not generate many takeaways, so the Panthers will noyl have themselves to blame if they cannot remain in possession of the ball.
Pitt and NC State kickoff from Heinz Field at noon on Saturday, with pregame coverage beginning at 10 a.m. on 93.7 The Fan and the Pitt Panthers Radio Network.