ACC Football - 2021 Pittsburgh Panthers Preview
Our Pittsburgh Panthers preview 2021 finds that this team has potential. Last season, with a conference record of 5-5 and overall mark of 6-5, the Panthers tied Boston College and Virginia Tech for sixth in the ACC. Pittsburgh’s passing offense ranked eighth in the ACC and 39th nationally, while their rushing defense topped the conference and was ranked third nationally. The good news is that this season the passing ranking could be even better. However, the bad news is the D-line has lost two All-American ends.
Pittsburgh Offense
QB Kenny Pickett’s decision to come back for the 2021 was huge for this offense. Last year, Pickett completed 203-of-332 passes for 2,408 yards and 13 TDs. He also snuck into the end zone for eight more scores. Two starting wideouts return, including reception leader Jordan Addison. Last season, as a freshman, he had 60 catches for 666 yards and four scores.
Junior RB Vincent Davis is also back. Last season, he led the Panthers with 143 carries, 632 yards, 4.4 YPA, and six rushing TDs. He also grabbed 24 passes with one going for a score. Half of the frontline starters are gone, including three-time All-ACC center Jimmy Morrissey. However, Pittsburgh’s O-line still has plenty of solid, experienced players.
Pittsburgh Panthers Preview 2021 - Defense
On the line, DE Patrick Jones II and his nine sacks are gone. The All-American also had 13 TFL. Also missing will be All-American DE Rashad Weaver who last year notched 7.5 sacks and 14.5 TFL. Overall, the Panther D was excellent last season, ranked second nationally in sacks and tackles for a loss, third in rush defense, ninth in interceptions, and 20th in yards allowed.
Despite the losses, there is promise. Senior Deslin Alexander, Weaver’s backup, returns having recorded 6.5 TFL, three sacks, and one fumble recovery last season. He’s made 15 starts. DT Devin Danlelson, who posted 21 tackles and two sacks in seven starts, looks to be a major contributor. The linebacking unit is solid, as three starters and three experienced backups are ready to go. Look for Cam Bright (53 TKLs, 8.5 TFL), Phil Campbell (4.5 sacks), and SirVocea Dennis (57 TKLs, 14.5 TFL, and 4 SCKs) to be major contributors. The secondary will miss star safeties Damar Hamlin and Paris Ford, but the corner spots have plenty of experience.
Specialists
Our Pittsburgh Panthers preview 2021 observes that Jordan Addison, who was the runner-up for ACC Rookie of the year, will be the team’s runback expert. He should get the job done. Last season, punter Kirk Christodoulou averaged 44.7 YPP, ranking 16th in the nation. Although with Christodoulou’s return that spot is secure, there are questions regarding placekicking. Alex Kessman, who started for four years, is gone. Freshman Ben Sauls may replace him. Although Sam Scarton has a shot at the position too.
Pittsburgh Panthers Preview 2021 - Projection
With our Pittsburgh Panthers preview 2021 we are making a bold call. Third place will be a major achievement for this team. Virginia Tech also has a serious shot at third as does Virginia. However, as is often the case, we expect Pittsburgh’s defense to step up and their offense to improve. Three games on their ACC schedule will decide their fate, Miami, Virginia Tech, and Virginia. If they can win two-of-three, the Panthers will have a real shot at third in the Coastal Division.
ACC Football - Pittsburgh Panthers 2021 - Predictions:
Third Place - ACC Coastal
Sun Bowl vs. Utah