On this week's Peak at the Panthers, Cale Berger and Chris Peak recap Pitt's win over Syracuse and preview their Top-25 matchup with Louisville coming up on Saturday.
The Panthers were victorious 21-10 over the Orange last weekend, but were plagued by self-inflicted errors for much of the afternoon, leaving head coach Pat Narduzzi less than satisfied after the win. Cale and Chris both felt that their biggest takeaway was Pitt's ability to overcome their mistakes and still get the win. Cale mentioned that the issues they faced last Saturday were similar to those the offense dealt with last season. The difference will have to be their ability to correct them, instead of allowing their errors to continue as the year progresses.
Pitt will host the Louisville Cardinals next on Saturday at noon, with pregame coverage beginning at 93.7 The Fan and the Pitt Panthers Radio Network. Chris' key for the Panthers on Sunday is the offense creating big plays. The Cardinals have been one of the worst defenses in the country at eliminating big gains over the last two seasons, while the Pitt offense struggled to generate explosiveness last Saturday against Syracuse. Louisville has allowed 24 plays of 40 yards or more over the last two years. Chris and Cale agree that this weekend's matchup is a perfect opportunity for the offense to get rolling.
While Cale agrees, his key to victory against Louisville is almost the reverse of what Chris identified. Cale believes the Pitt defense needs to eliminate explosive plays from the Louisville offense to earn the win Saturday. Specifically, wide receiver Tutu Atwell is one of the fastest and most talented athletes in the country. Over his Cardinals career, he has seven receptions of over 50 yards. For Pitt to improve to 3-0, they will have to contain Atwell and the rest of Louisville's speedy supporting cast.
In recruiting news, Chris provides an update on the Panthers' newest commitment for the 2021 class, Baldwin defensive tackle Dorian Ford.