Pitt vs. Villanova Prediction And Game Preview
Pitt vs. Villanova prediction and game preview for the opening contest of the 2016 season. Find out who's projected to win the matchup between the
Pitt vs. Villanova prediction and game preview for the opening contest of the 2016 season. Find out who’s projected to win the matchup between the Panthers and Wildcats.
Pitt vs. Villanova Game Preview
Broadcast Info
Date: Saturday, Sept. 3, 2016
Kickoff: 1:30 p.m. ET
Venue: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PA
Television Station: ESPN3
Main Pitt vs. Villanova Storyline
The Panthers will be paced by the return of running back James Conner, who claimed ACC player of the year honors in 2014. Former Tennessee signal-caller Nathan Peterman will need to provide steady play for the offense to be consistent, but it will be difficult with an untested receiving corps following the early departure of Tyler Boyd. Look for Dontez Ford to be the primary target.
Colonial Athletic Association member Villanova will begin its final season under Andy Talley, who has been the program’s head coach since 1985. Offensive line coach Mark Ferrante, who has been with the program for 29 years, will take over in 2017. Once again the Wildcats will rely on their defense, but quarterback Zach Bednarczyk is expected to shine after taking over for John Robertson last year when Robertson latter blew out his knee. He shared honors as CAA offensive rookie of the year last fall.
Pitt vs. Villanova Betting Odds
Spread: Pitt -26
Over/Under: NA
Matchup to Watch
James Conner vs. Villanova defense
Conner is one of the best stories in college football this season. After battling back from a season-ending injury and beating Hodgkin’s lymphoma, he is ready to help the Panthers compete in the ACC Coastal division.
Advantages
Offense: Pitt. Even without an established primary receiver, the Panthers should have no problem moving the ball against the Wildcats under new OC Matt Canada.
Defense: Villanova. The Wildcats will once again be stout on this side of the ball, led by a strong linebacker corps and lineman Tanoh Kpassagnon.
Special Teams: Pitt. The Panthers have the best-named kicker in the business: Chris Blewitt.
Coaching: Even. Talley should enjoy a nice final season, while Pat Narduzzi notched eight wins in his first season with the Panthers.
Intangibles: Pitt. Having Conner back on the field will be uplifting.
Pitt vs. Villanova Prediction
The Wildcats are a solid FCS program, but the Panthers will control both line of scrimmages and cruise to victory.
Final Score Prediction For Pitt vs. Villanova: Pittsburgh 38, Villanova 17
