On Thursday, October 24, 2024, the No. 19 Pittsburgh Panthers will host the Syracuse Orange at Acrisure Stadium for an ACC showdown. Pittsburgh aims to remain undefeated and extend their best season start in over 40 years, while Syracuse looks to pull off a crucial road win to crack the Top 25 rankings. Both teams return from bye weeks and bring high-powered offenses to the field, setting the stage for an exciting matchup.
Pittsburgh (6-0) barely survived their last game, edging Cal 17-15, while Syracuse (5-1) earned a key victory over North Carolina State before their break. With tough schedules looming for both squads, this game carries significant conference implications. The Panthers are 5.5-point favorites, but the Orange, led by Ohio State transfer quarterback Kyle McCord, are ready to challenge Pitt’s unbeaten streak.
About the Pittsburgh Panthers
The Panthers are riding high at 6-0 and are on the verge of their first 7-0 start since 1982. Their offense, led by quarterback Eli Holstein, averages 305.8 passing yards per game, ranking 12th in the FBS. Holstein has thrown for 1,697 yards and 15 touchdowns, with Konata Mumpfield leading the receiving corps with 26 catches for 463 yards.
Pittsburgh’s rushing attack features Desmond Reid, who has proven to be a dual threat. Reid has been dynamic both on the ground and in the passing game, contributing heavily to Pitt’s offense. However, the Panthers’ defense will need to tighten up against Syracuse, as they are allowing 244.7 passing yards per game, ranking 105th nationally.
The Panthers’ defense remains strong against the run, allowing just 108.5 rushing yards per game, ranking 25th in the nation. Defensive tackle Sean FitzSimmons emphasized the team’s focus on staying undefeated, stating, “We’ve got to go 1-0 this week.” With critical games against SMU and Clemson approaching, Pitt must maintain momentum.
About the Syracuse Orange
Syracuse enters this game with a 5-1 record and a chip on their shoulder after being left just outside the Top 25 rankings. Kyle McCord has been sensational, throwing for 2,160 yards and 19 touchdowns, placing him among the top 10 passers in the country. McCord’s ability to distribute the ball will be crucial against a Pittsburgh defense that has struggled against the pass.
Running the ball has been a challenge for the Orange, who rank 121st in the FBS with just 104.3 rushing yards per game. However, the team’s passing game more than makes up for it, as they rank second nationally with 365.2 yards through the air per game. In their most recent victory over NC State, McCord threw for 346 yards and two touchdowns, helping Syracuse win 24-17.
This matchup also marks the first season under head coach Fran Brown, who has led the Orange to a promising start. Syracuse will need to be disciplined on defense to contain Pittsburgh’s offense, especially Reid, who has impressed Brown with his versatility. A win in Pittsburgh would not only boost Syracuse into the Top 25 but also give them a key victory in ACC play.
Pick and Prediction
This Thursday night clash promises to be a close contest between two well-rounded teams. Pittsburgh has the advantage of playing at home, where they’ve averaged 47.2 points per game. However, the Orange have shown resilience on the road and boast one of the top passing offenses in the country, which could exploit Pitt’s secondary struggles.
Expect both offenses to find success, but Pitt’s superior run defense might make the difference. With McCord’s passing attack facing a stiff challenge and Pittsburgh’s ability to control the clock with Reid, the Panthers should edge out a narrow victory.
- Pick: Pittsburgh Moneyline (-218)
- Projected Score: Pittsburgh 34, Syracuse 28
