Game notes. Game notes for Pitt and Syracuse (PDF). The house of horrors that is the Carrier Dome for Pitt — 3-9-1.
At this time, the shocker is that Freshman tailback Delone Carter is not officially listed as the starter on the ‘Cuse depth chart (p. 18). Curtis Brinkley is still listed as the starter. It really only seems like a formality to something that will happen sooner, rather than later.
The true freshman tailback Delone Carter rushed for four touchdowns, including two in overtime, and probably established himself as the Orange’s star for the future. Carter’s 129 yards came on only 20 carries as he showed why he was named Mr. Ohio last year when he rushed for 49 touchdowns at Copley Senior High.
I think we can expect some comparisons to how Kevin Collier is doing for Pitt, since it disappointed many when the local kid came to Pitt.
Carter really turned it on in the second half against Wyoming when he gained 115 of the 129 yards.
It can be expected that Syracuse will be looking to run — a lot. Taj Smith was their big play receiver and he is out for some time. Another starting WR, Rice Moss, suffered a “slightly” separated right shoulder in the Wyoming game, but is not ruled out for Pitt (he is listed on the depth chart as starting).
Do you have an update on Rice Moss?
“Yes, it is maybe a little better than what we were expecting. The next couple days will be good indicators I think. It could have been worse is what I would tell you. I would like to think optimistically. Who knows? We really don’t know right now.”
What is the injury?
“Light separation of the shoulder.”
Any chances he could play against Pittsburgh?
“There is a chance.”
Keep in mind, his arm was in a sling on Sunday at practice.
Syracuse has a very vulnerable pass defense.
Pittsburgh comes into the Carrier Dome on Saturday with a 4-1 record, its best start since 2002. Quarterback Tyler Palko is ranked No. 1 nationally in passing efficiency and will be facing a secondary that surrendered 326 passing yards to Wyoming.
“He’s obviously completing balls at a good rate and he’s also not throwing many interceptions,” Robinson said. “He’s thrown some touchdown passes. So it makes him very effective. We’ve all known Tyler Palko is a talented young player. It’s our job to minimize his game; make him less efficient.”
What Syracuse has done well on defense, is blitz. They have 25 sacks to lead the country. Given their secondary, the effectiveness of Pitt’s passing game and Pitt’s questionable O-line; I don’t think it will be a state secret to expect Syracuse to blitz a hell of a lot in this weekend’s game. Just a hunch.
I thought we were supposed to play Washington during this year, but I guess that is next year? I don’t see it on the schedule at Pitt’s website.
Anyway, the Cuse will be bringing heat all day this Saturday. It’s really the only chance they have to get at us, honestly. If we can sneak some draws past some over-pursuing defenders, we should be able to make some nice gains on the ground, and also free up the passing lanes a little bit. Syracuse shouldn’t be overlooked, but they shouldn’t be too much of a challenge for Pitt.
I feel like this is a game where Pitt’s RB-by-committee will actually serve them quite well. Making fresh subs in and out, all game, against a blitzing defense will pay dividends in the third and fourth quarters, when the Orange D gets winded.
I hope things are getting easier for you and you family after the fire.
I appreciate all of your posts.