Never let it be said that Syracuse lacks gallows humor.

How about a game of Bingo (PDF)? They have 3 different cards.

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Here’s the blueprint to how Syracuse can beat Pitt. Strangely, it doesn’t involve lulling Wannstedt into a false sense that the game is over by going down 14-0 in the first quarter.

Quick comparison on the game that is a must-win for both coaches.

Conference opener. It’s sort of a clean slate.

“It is sort of like starting over now,” Wannstedt said. “The first three weeks, you put them behind you and you make the focus what our main goal is, win the Big East title. I am sure Syracuse feels the same way, and so this will be a very tough game because I’m sure the Orange will be more than ready to play.”

Of course, Pitt still has two more non-cons to play.

A quick summary of two disappointing teams under their respective coaches. Since it is out of Rochester, the focus is more on the ‘Cuse shortcomings.

Well, what do you know. Even OC Cavanaugh admits there is some reason for disappointment with the offense.

“You have to get some of those chunk runs,” he said. “I don’t think you’re going to go out there and average 5 yards per carry on 40 carries, (but) at some point you’re going to break one. We’ve got guys that can go the distance.”

Through three games Pitt is averaging 3.6 yards per rush.

“We’re all disappointed that the numbers aren’t where they’re supposed to be,” Cavanaugh said. “Nobody wants to discount winning a couple games, we just feel to complement our offense we need to run the ball for more yards than we’re getting, and we’re close.

“I’m hoping we can get both LeSean and LaRod on track here pretty quick, and start being a little more efficient running the football.”

No word about the passing game.