Sorry, I’ve had to work insane hours this weekend, and today is no different. DVR delay for me tonight.
Pitt has come out staggering in the last 5 games. That has been killing them. They just aren’t good enough to get buried like that.
The problem — as much as it is the poor defense — is that they have come out so badly on offense. Like it or not, this is an offense first team. Not simply that they have to score a ton to win (and they do), but you can see what it does to their defensive effort when they aren’t scoring. Their frustration on offense causes more and more mistakes and carelessness on the defensive end.
That was the thing in that Clemson game. They started well enough, but as the offense went south the defense somehow managed to become more inept.
The blame on the offense is widespread (except, for Mike Young). James Robinson has reverted back to 2014-15 shooting. None of the other guards have exactly shown any consistency. In the Clemson game, the guard positions combined for 2-17 shooting.
Even Jamel Artis has been bad — especially in the first half. With the exception of the BC game, he has struggled mightily. Over the past 2 weeks — 4 games (again, not including the really bad BC team) — he has shot 18-49 (4-19 on 3s). From what I’ve seen, Artis has stopped attacking the rim and settling for jumpers more and more.
VT can score the ball. Buzz Williams has been one of those coaches who has handled Pitt over the years at Marquette and now VT.
I am assuming that this will be a much tougher game than wanted, and anticipated before the season started.
Hate the domers, and I hope they get fried for this – but the truck IS impressive!
On the other hand, I don’t blame Jamie for being slow to go with this new lineup. Every coach wants a Center in their starting lineup in order to deal with certain conference match-ups. We’ve tried Maia & Ododa in varying combinations, and both have had and will continue to have their moments, but neither is quite a starting ACC Center.
Mike Young would benefit from playing beside a Center, so that’s unfortunate that he doesn’t get the opportunity this year. So we just go with our 5 best guys, trying to offset size the best we can…
But like you say the improvement is with the big three and Jeter, who are all more mature and improved.
H2P
Harry Psaros tweeted (8hrs ago) that Chase Pine is 100% committed to Pitt. Chase Pine was quoted typing “H2P for life”.
For what it’s worth?!?!?
Pitt 1972 – Hamlin is announcing live tonight on KDKA – 6pm news
Pitt’s non-con schedule strength is 192. This is a liability Dixon creates every year just so he can get his 20 win bonus. It’s pathetic.
Pantherlair podcast stated that Pine talked with Harley last night and reaffirmed commitment and was to talk with Duzz today. So he seems good now.
Would just be awesome to flip 2 Ped State recruits…
Oh, vuk stating Sanders mother not letting Pitt coaches to talk him… Mama Lock Down.
Vuk breaking news now.
********
#412Crew
“Fans really appreciate hometown kids staying in Pittsburgh and playing for the team representing the city.” – J.P. Holtz
However, until the powers that be change the rules, I’m glad we have relentess lions and tigers and bears chasing down the best recruits till the bitter end.
Take the high road?? That’s how you get crap recruiting classes.
Take the high road?? That’s how PSU, WVU, Ohio State and Notre Dame eat you for dinner.
You want to win, you can’t take the high road.
You have to be relentless.
Nauseating?? Absolutely.
Change the rules then. Until that happens, go get em’ Nard Dog!!!
HTP and the 412crew!
HAIL TO PITT!!
H2p Mr Mathews and Mr Hamlin!!
Johnny Majors
Welcome and HTP!
HTP and the 412crew!
Get used to this phrase – Hail to Pitt!
I know some get really mad when we talk about future seasons (which happens routinely in FB threads BTW) but I’m excited for the future of the backcourt with Wilson and CJ. That’s going to be a lethal combo in 2-3 years (maybe even next!). Luther needs to see his minutes climb too, I really like his game. He’s going to be a key cog on future teams.
The UVA game seems so far away. I think it’s our best shot at a top-tier win. We’re due to beat the Cavs, we’re at home, and they’re a tad bit over ranked (I’ve personally watched them rally for two W’s that should have been L’s). Right now the ACC looks like it has 3 tiers: UNC, top and bottom. If we can stay mired in the “top” we’re in OK shape.