It is the first game of the season, so let's see what each team has to do. First Pitt. They have a great RB in Dion Lewis. So much for the offense. The problem for Pitt's offense is twoford. First, lose they three starters on the offensive line. Next, they must break in a new QB and be able to use their WR's. This is often hard to do by game 1. The defense should be a plus for them.
Now Utah. Their offense is in better shape, returning their starting QB, RB, and 4 offensive linemen, plus their TE and a WR. They should be able to move the ball and test Pitt's revamped defense. Utah's defense must replace all 3 starting LB's and both safeties. The line should be solid.
The first game of the season is always tough to call. With so many unknowns on the Pitt offense, and the Utah defense, this porbably is a good game to stay away from. 3.5 points is a rather "iffy" line, one that has seen very little action on the futures in Vegas. To me, tis is a definate pass. Too many unknowns for game 1.
I know Pitt has an excellent running back in Dion Lewis. I'm sure his legs will be fresh for the first game. Pitt also has a pretty talented receiving core. But ..thier starting QB will be starting his first game ever. And his first game ever ..on the road! I hate that! But word is ..the QB is a dual threat and over the season will probably be an upgrade over last years starting QB.
Utah will be replacing all three starting linebackers and both starting safeties. So they will lack a little experience. But Utah's offense should be pretty good. Returning both starting QB and leading RB from last year.
Overall..I like Pitt and the points, especially if its 3.5 (like the hook) This game is going to be close from start to finish. I suspect a field goal will be the difference.
**side note: I agree with Big Daddy..This is a tough one to cap. Unless I see the public overwhelmingly favoring one side or the other. I would bet light
I would have to go Pitt here. I agree that it will be a close game but I think that the Pitt O will be too much for the Utah D, only 4 starters returning. I don't like new QB's starting on the road, and you can never count out a Wannstedt team to blow a game. With that said it should be a fun one to watch but I think Dion Lewis and the Pitt O-Line will run wild over the front 7 of the Utah D, which should open up the passing game for Baldwin. I do like Jordan Wynn though and both Utah RB's but it might be difficult to handle Romeus and the rest of the Pitt D-Line. So I will take the 3 point and the hook as that sounds about right.
I really think this will go under. This is a very valid point as these schools have rushing attacks. I'm really looking forward to this game to open the college football season. I hope Pitt wins but I can't ignore the reputation of the Utes.
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Pitt @ Utah- 3.5
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