Pardon the BloggEruption

In Rod We Trust?

After the 27-14 win over Ohio U., we've certainly got a few questions about this year's Pitt team. QB Rod Rutherford was only 9-for-22 with 2 TDs and 3 INTs, though it seems as if 2 of those were off of tips. One of the TDs was a shuffle pass to Raymond Kirkley, and there were a number of drops by WRs Slade and Bynes, so Rod's line would more realistically look something like 9-16, 1TD, 1INT. Below average for what Pitt fans had come to expect the past 5 seasons of Walt Harris football. I wouldn't complain if he had run more on the Bobcats, but it seemed as if Walt was determined to have Rod stay in the pocket for most of the game. QB will continue to be a huge question mark going into the A&M game. Brandon Miree looked pretty good at RB, though the run blocking needs some work. Lousaka Polite will play in the NFL and will actually get some touches at the FB spot.

The defense was also disappointing, despite managing to create 6 interceptions, including 3 from Shawntae Spencer. Gerald Hayes was a beast as usual. However, allowing over 200 yards rushing to a MAC triple option team just doesn't cut the mustard. Though A&M is a more straightforward, Big XII, up-your-gut with some passing offense, I worry about the D's ability to contain them for a full 4 quarters. Hopefully this was just first game jitters and inexperience, though I fear we will be missing the presence of several departed seniors from the '01 team.

Special teams played fairly well. For once, I am totally unconcerned about the kicking game. (Thanks for graduating, Mr. Lotz!) Andy Lee has greatly improved the punting game to the point where we expect Josh Miller-type corner accuracy each time. Major improvement from the 2-yard punts of '00. Giving up a few big KO returns may be something we have to deal with this season, though I'm confident the coaches can correct that one.

Immediate outlook for the A&M game? Cautiously optimistic that home field advantage, a banged up A&M QB, and a solid D performance will carry the day. They say that teams improve most between games 1 and 2 ... let's hope that's the case for the Panthers this week. Hail to Pitt!