The feature story for the day is another about the work in progress of teaching the offense how to run the ball.
The biggest difference has been the number of power-run formations the Panthers use as well as the frequency with which the coaches call inside running plays. Some days, the Panthers have pulled it off, others they have struggled.
Pitt head coach Dave Wannstedt said he believes the Panthers have the talent to become a great running team, but he knows they have a long way to go before they’ve mastered the offense.
“Learning the formations and movements is probably giving us as much trouble as the plays,” he said. “I think half the time we’re having problems out there it is because of getting lined up and getting into the right spots. I think at some point, we have to either get it or simplify. We haven’t reached that point, but [this weekend] that will be a major decision. We have to figure out how much we can really do.”
Naturally, the coach won’t say it, but it is also a question of talent. Pitt is not exactly loaded at the offensive line, and no one is totally sure about the running backs.
Along with running the football more and with more authority, there will be several other major differences in the offense. A big one is the way tight ends will be used. They will be a much bigger part of the passing game and not just in blocking.
That could become a strength, considering the talent the Panthers have at that position. In starter Erik Gill and backup Steve Buches, they have two experienced players who are both excellent receivers. Sophomore Darrell Strong has the potential to become a big-time player.
“That should be one of the stronger positions on our team,” Wannstedt said. “With Gill, Buches and Strong, I feel really good about that position. I think we have to keep Eric’s weight down a little, but he is the starter and has a real chance to become a complete tight end. He can catch, he’s smart, he can block.”
Strong, who was a receiver last season, added, “It wouldn’t have been fun to be a tight end in the old offense, but in this offense it looks like we’ll all get our chance to make plays. From that standpoint, this offense is a lot more simple and makes a lot more sense. It is more geared towards power football, but it allows playmakers at all positions to make plays. We’re going to be tough to stop once we get rolling.”
The Panthers are throwing more screen passes than in the past, are using two tight ends and even an H-back on occasion and are throwing more short passes.
Now, I have to quibble a bit right here. While their use has been inconsistent, Pitt has been strong at and utilized the tight end position for the previous few years. Kris Wilson and then Eric Gill last year, both played prominent rolls on the offense. And not just for their blocking. Harris may have been slow to use them as often as I at times have complained, but they were definitely key features of the offense.
Now, I do like the 2 TE idea, not simply as extra blockers. There is more depth at the position than before, and it makes sense to use it. Of course, Darrell Strong did hurt his knee in practice. The extent of the injury is unknown right now.
Today’s player puff piece is on redshirt freshman Dominic Williams. Williams is expected to be the starting Left Guard.
