You know how I think Pitt is actually taking this game seriously? I’ve read nothing about the short week and Pitt’s Thursday night game against UConn. There is no looking past this game so far. A good sign.

Me, September 19, after the Nebraska game:

To some degree, maybe you can compare this to the Texas A&M game for Rod Rutherford 2 years ago. Pitt’s offense looked pathetic most of the game, and then in the 2nd half, Rutherford seemed to find the switch. Pitt still lost, but things finally started falling into place for Rutherford. Wishful thinking? Rod had Fitzgerald. Perhaps. We won’t know for a few more weeks. I’m just saying there is something in my gut…

Joe Bendel, September 24:

Tyler Palko and Rod Rutherford had strikingly similar starts to their Pitt quarterbacking careers.

Both were awful in their debut game.

Both struggled against a Big 12 opponent Palko vs. Nebraska; Rutherford vs. Texas A&M — in the first half of their second game.

And both came to life in the second half, nearly leading the Panthers to improbable last-minute victories.

Glad I’m not the only one who saw some parallels.

We might see a quick kick this weekend, but it may come from Furman. A piece on their quarterback points out that he has experience punting.

Marcus Furman is tired of hearing stupid comments about the opponent being the same as his last name. Furman and Kirkley both suffered “slight” concussions in the Nebraska game (is that like a little pregnant?”) but will play. Tim Murphy is questionable with an ankle sprain.

As for the ever-questionable O-line. Is the glass half-full?

Harris sees some progress in the line

Or half-empty?

Pitt’s line banged up

Belarski and Pettiti are playing well. Spencer is still struggling with the conversion. Simonitis is returning this week, but left practice early for more treatment on his ankle. Frederick is still out. Who knows.