3:10 to go, down four, ball on their own 38 yard line.

3:44 to go, down seven, ball on their own 28 yard line.

1:04: to go, down 3, ball on their own 24 yard line.

That’s the situation opposing offenses have been in the last three games. The result? ZERO points and three wins for Pitt. After the defense held on against VT, Narduzzi said in his press conference that the team made mistakes against Iowa that led to the 57 yard FG. Since then, not only has the defense held on, they’ve thrived. What a change from last year. When the defense is on the field with the game on the line they’ve responded. (more…)

There are two Coastal division opponents Pitt has yet to beat in the storied history of Pitt in the ACC. Last year was particularly humiliating as Pitt coughed the ball up in comically ridiculous fashion throughout the second half. Meanwhile the Yellow Jackets just ran over Pitt, prompting a panicked defensive coordinator to junk everything from the game plan at halftime — it didn’t help.

The game is a 12:30 start syndicated by the ACC. Hopefully you can find a station. If not, it’s ESPN3.com or — in my case as I’m visiting in-laws where naturally the middle of the state of Ohio is not carrying it — the WatchESPN app on your phone.

Did I bring a flask of Four Roses and a six-pack of Lagunitas Little Sumpin’ Extra to get me through the game (and family)? It’s a possibility.