Ones To Watch: Pitt

Here this week for a new segment I am calling, Ones to Watch. I will show you the statistical leaders on the team, talk to you about some things I observed on film, & whatever else catches my eye. I will not be stepping on JK’s toes for his EYNTK piece (much), but giving you a little to be on the lookout for. FYI, if you haven’t checked out EYNTK I suggest you do. It’s fantastic. Here we go…

This team is averaging a hefty 43.3 ppg after putting 61 on Duquense & 45 on CMU. It is quite possible their ppg can be a little intimidating & misleading at the same time. They have rushed for a total of only 328 & thrown for 945 through the air in three games. Their starting QB, Eli Holstein, has the following stat line so far. He has completed 58-88 passes (65.9%), thrown 3 interceptions, 822 yards, 9 TD’s with a long of 68. He is averaging 274 yards through the air this season with former Card Cat Hicks being one of his primary targets. The offense has only committed 2 turnovers so far with both being INT’s by Holstein.

Receiving wise, Raphael Williams (12 for 245 & 3 TD), Kenny Johnson (9 for 126 & 1 TD), & Cat Hicks (7 for 84 & 2 TD) are leading the way this season. On the ground, Desmond Reid (24 for 148 & 2 TD) & Eli Holstein (25 for 107 & 2 TD) lead the way. Holstein also has been sacked 8 times for -57 yards putting his net rushing yards at 50. Not big numbers rushing wise.

The Defense has only given up 243 on the ground & 608 through the air for an average of 283 total ypg. Louisville can surpass the rushing yards allowed by Pittsburgh from their first 3 games in one contest this Saturday. That is, as long as the 3-headed rushing monster is available & ready to go. Even if it’s only Keyjuan leading the charge, he can get half of that. Their defense has only forced 3 turnovers this season scoring points off of each. They have sacked the opposing QB 12 times this season. They are allowing an astounding 91% scoring in the red zone. Pitt has given up 6 TD’s this season for an average of 2 per game. Their leading tacklers are LB Rasheem Biles (30) & DB Cruce Brookins (23). Their most complete defensive player, however, is LB Kyle Louis. He is 3rd in tackles with 19, the leader in TFL with 3.5, tied for INT’s (1), & he’s the leader in fumble recoveries (1). 

Special teams: 6-7 FG’s

Their punter avg 44.1 ypp

Score by Quarter:

1st 21-0 Pitt

2nd 40-23 Pitt

3rd 32-14 Pitt

4th 37-13 Pitt

4th 37-13 Pitt

OT 0-7 opponents

Total 130-57

For complete Pitt season stats, click here

Hope you enjoyed the first edition of Ones to watch!