FSU football: 3 important things to know about Pittsburgh
By Kelvin Hunt
Defensive Tackles For Loss
Pitt’s defense ranks No. 33 via FEI advanced metrics, which is the second best defense FSU has faced since Clemson. Pitt’s solid against the run and swarms to the ball, ranking No. 19 nationally in tackles for a loss.
They only allow 3.31 yards per rush, which ranks No. 24 nationally. However, where they are most vulnerable is through the air, which is similar to the Wake Forest defense FSU played last week. That’s how FSU attacked Wake Forest early, and I wouldn’t be suprised to see FSU use tht blueprint.
Pitt allows teams to complete 65 percent of its passes this season, at 8.4 yards (No. 123 nationally) per attempt and 11 touchdowns. They are in the same ballpark as Syracuse and Wake Forest in explosive plays allowed. The FSU offense torched both defenses, with Jordan Travis completing 62 percent of his passes for 284 and 359 yards, respectively.
Sam Hartman completed 72 percent of his passes against Pittsburgh last week for 288 yards, but several were short passes to guys in space. He also threw two interceptions, though one was off of a deflection. I expect the Pitt defense to be solid early but wear down before the flood gates come.