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Pitt-Duke Football Preview: Can Panthers Prove Elite ACC Status?
This weekend, the Pitt Panthers (2-1, 0-0 ACC) will face a pivotal ACC Coastal Division showdown against the Duke Blue Devils (3-0, 0-0 ACC). The Panthers are seeking to establish themselves as a contender in the ACC, while the Blue Devils aim to prove their resurgence under second-year coach, Mike Elko.
A Resurgent Blue Devils Defense
Duke’s defense has been a revelation this season, ranking among the nation’s top 25 units in several defensive categories. The Blue Devils have allowed only 24 points through three games, leading the ACC and ranking seventh nationally. Their pass defense has been particularly impressive, allowing just 161.3 yards per game and intercepting five passes.
Leading the Duke defense is senior linebacker Shaka Heyward, who has recorded 34 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and two interceptions. Defensive tackle DeWayne Carter has also been a force up front with 3.5 tackles for loss and a pair of sacks.
Pitt’s Offensive Prowess
On the offensive side of the ball, Pitt boasts a balanced and explosive attack. Quarterback Kedon Slovis has passed for 866 yards and six touchdowns with just two interceptions. Running back Israel Abanikanda leads the ACC in rushing with 369 yards and has scored five touchdowns.
Pitt’s wide receivers Jordan Addison and Jared Wayne are dynamic playmakers who have combined for 42 catches, 633 yards, and seven touchdowns. The Panthers’ offensive line has also been solid, allowing only one sack this season.
Key Matchups to Watch
Several key matchups will determine the outcome of this game.
- Pitt’s offensive line vs. Duke’s defensive line: Pitt’s offensive line will need to protect Slovis and create running lanes for Abanikanda against a dominant Duke defensive front.
- Pitt’s wide receivers vs. Duke’s pass defense: Addison and Wayne will face a tough test against Duke’s talented secondary, led by All-American safety Darius Rush.
- Duke’s running game vs. Pitt’s defense: Duke’s running back Jordan Waters has rushed for 245 yards and two touchdowns this season. Pitt’s defense will need to limit Waters’ production to force Duke to become one-dimensional.
Path to Victory for Pitt
To defeat Duke, Pitt must establish their running game with Abanikanda. Slovis will also need to make quick decisions and utilize Addison and Wayne’s playmaking abilities to move the chains and keep Duke’s defense off the field.
Defensively, Pitt needs to generate pressure on Duke quarterback Riley Leonard and disrupt Duke’s running game. They must also limit big plays in the passing game by keeping close coverage on Duke’s wide receivers.
Path to Victory for Duke
Duke will need to control the time of possession and keep Pitt’s offense off the field. Their defense must continue to play at a high level and force turnovers.
On offense, Duke needs to establish Waters and their running game. Leonard will need to make smart decisions and take advantage of opportunities in the passing game.
Conclusion
The Pitt-Duke matchup is a crucial ACC Coastal Division game that could have significant implications for both teams’ conference title hopes. Pitt is seeking to prove their status as an elite ACC team, while Duke aims to solidify their resurgence under Coach Elko.
The key matchups and strategies discussed above will play a significant role in determining the outcome of this game. Pitt’s balanced offense and Duke’s resurgent defense will square off in a battle that promises to be both competitive and entertaining.
