The Duke Blue Devils Eyes Pittsburgh For ACC Battle This Weekend
DURHAM NC – The struggling Duke Blue Devils (3-4, 0-4 ACC) prepare to take on the Pittsburgh Panthers (6-2, 3-1 ACC) who look to bounce back after a devastating home loss to Miami last Saturday. Duke will host the Panthers in Durham as they are desperate for a win.
The Panthers offense has been on another level lately despite the loss last week, led by senior quarterback Kenny Pickett. His impressive campaign has made him a Johnny Unitas Award Nominee, an award that evaluates the best Upperclassman quarterback in the country. Also acknowledging performance as well as character, citizenship, integrity, and those who honor the game, according to pittsburghsportsnow.com.
Last week against Miami, Pickett threw for 519 yards through the air for three touchdowns and two interceptions. On the season, the Panthers offense has been stellar, coming in averaging just under 45 points per game and 345 passing yards per game.
While Pickett isn’t known too much for his mobility, his ability to see the field and awareness in the pocket is the most significant component of why this Panthers passing attack is so dynamic. Sophomore wide receiver Jordan Addison (Frederick, MD) has been one of Pickett’s primary targets accumulating 815 receiving yards on the season, averaging 17.5 yards per catch and 10 touchdowns.
As for the Blue Devils, senior star running back Mataeo Durant has carried the offense on his back, having a productive 2021. Mostly because of quarterback Gunnar Holmberg’s struggles in the passing game, who was pulled last week after totaling just 110 yards passing.
The Blue Devils offense has had difficulty all season making plays in opponent territory and stalling drives, which has been a critical component in the offensive struggles. If the Blue Devils want any chance to be victorious come Saturday, they must slow down the Panthers passing attack by making plays on defense and being effective in the passing game.
My prediction: Pitt 38 Duke 14.