Steelers 24, Bengals 16: A different way to win

Hello all. On Sunday, the Pittsburgh Steelers got a big  victory over the hated Bungles at Heinz Field. As with every game, there were things that went right, and things that went wrong. I'm here to talk about those things. Let's go.

Offense 
What went right 
In spite of the crap weather conditions that the Steelers juggernaut had to work with, they did have their fair share of explosive plays. Ben Roethlisberger hit Sammy Coates just twice- for a total of 97 yards. That's the kind of day it was for the Steelers. Not a whole lot happened, but when something did happen, it was huge. Roethlisberger reverted to what he did often from 2004-08 self, which was to play substandard, but at the end of the day, make the big plays and get the win.

What went wrong
24 points for the this Steelers offense is pretty anti-climatic. Although #7 found a way to bring home the W, there is no denying that he was not himself on Sunday. Of course, the crappy weather conditions contributed to the lackluster performance of Roethlisberger and the rest of the Steelers offense, but Ben knows he has to make sure that Week 2 was an aberration. Antonio Brown was nonexistent, catching four balls for just 39 yards. DeAngleo Williams did have a respectable 94 yards on the ground, but he did so on 32 carries for a lackluster 2.9 yards per carry average. The Steelers offense was just never able to explode the way they did on opening night in Washington, but I feel that this performance will prove to be a fluke, and the Steelers offense will rise again.

Overall
It's only fair to give the Steelers a mulligan. It was a rainy day, and both teams passing performances suffered as a result. The Steelers have the best offense in the NFL, and Le'Veon Bell is coming back in less than two weeks, so buckle up.

Defense 
What went right

Ross Cockrell came to play. Photo creds to bluedevilnation.net

Last season, the Steelers fell into a stretch where their usually shaky defense was stout, while their usually explosive offense was shaky. Sunday was one of those games. The Steelers D came to play, and they played the smash-mouth, hard-nosed Steeler football that, until a few years ago, was usual in the Steel City. Wille Gay had a few hard hits. Cam Heyward drilled Andy Dalton. Ryan Shazier was an absolute carnivore on the field. The Steelers defense played well, and my choice for game MVP is the unheralded cornerback, Ross Cockrell. Cockrell had the daunting task of guarding one of the NFL's best athletes in A.J. Green and held the former Georiga Bulldog to 2 catches on eight targets and 38 receiving yards. Hats off to Cockrell. If this kid can learn how to tackle properly, there is no reason that he can't become a solid corner in this league.

What went wrong 
Not a lot negative to say here. Artie Burns got schooled by Giovani Bernard on a touchdown run, and Sean Davis missed some tackles. Other than that, the Steelers D was A-OK.

A negative from Sunday was that the Steelers got some favors from the officiating crew. Late in the 3rd quarter, Andy Dalton drove the Bengals down to the Pittsburgh 3-yard line. On 3rd down, Dalton threw a pass to his tight end, C.J. Uzomah, in the end zone, where he was forced out of bounds. The referee ruled that the pass was incomplete, but replays showed that Uzomah was able to get one knee down in the endzone with possession of the ball. By rule, this should have been a touchdown.

The second break that the Steelers got happened on the last meaningful play of the game. Just after the 2:00 warning, with Cincinnati driving into Steelers territory, Dalton found rookie Tyler Boyd for a short gain down to the Pittsburgh 33. Boyd was hit by James Harrison and fumbled the ball, which was recovered by Robert Golden. The crew reviewed the play, and it damn sure looked like Boyd's knee was down. But referee Pete Morelli saw no conclusive evidence, and the Steelers had the ball and the win.

While the Steelers were the better team and deserved to win the game, it's never good to have refs play a factor. Nonetheless, officials are human, and things like this happen.

Overall
It might not have been as dominant of a performance from the Steelers as we saw on opening night in Washington, but at the end of the day, a win over a heated rival is always sweet. The Steelers are the most dangerous team in the AFC, and nothing that happened on Sunday has changed my mind on that.

Steelers-Bengals: 3 Keys to Victory

Photo creds to www.espn.com

Hello, all. The NFL's hottest rivalry in 2015 will be in action at Heinz Field tomorrow afternoon. Hopefully, the Pittsburgh Steelers can defeat the hated Bungles for the 3rd straight time. Accomplishing that is easier said than done, and here are three things the Steelers need to do to make that happen. Without further ado, here is Joe Smeltzer's first 2016 edition of ''3 Keys to Victory''.

Key #1: Pressure Andy Dalton

Photo creds to profootballtalk.nbcsports.com

It doesn't take an expert analysis to point out that for a team to defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers this season, trying to shut down their offense might not be the most likely option. In short, if you want to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers, you have to score some points. The Cincinnati Bengals are capable of doing this, and the Steelers pass rush will need to make life hell for Cincy's QB, Andy Dalton. The Bengals offense consists of a lot of ''vertical'' plays, which, in short, are several receivers going down the field at once. While this strategy can be deadly when it works, one thing that Keith Butler can look to exploit is that  these plays require Dalton to hold onto the ball for a little bit. The longer it takes Dalton to release the ball, the longer the Steelers have to put pressure on him. If the Steelers can get to Dalton, there chances of victory increase dramatically.
Odds of excution: Fair

Key #2: AB: Burn whoever 

Photo creds to www.postgazette.com

Fans of football are in for a treat, as two of the best receivers in the world will be present in the Steel City in Cincy's AJ Green and, of course, Pittsburgh's Antonio Brown. AB's performance will be critical in any Steelers game, but especially one of this magnitude. In big games like this, you must have your big guns firing. Whoever is covering AB, whether it be Dre Kirkpatrick or Adam ''Packman'' Jones, better be in for a long day. If they are, I'm feeling pretty good about the Steelers chances.

Odds of Excution: Solid

Key #3: Be the bigger men

In case you've been living under a rock, the Steelers-Bengals rivalry has developed into a pretty ugly affair, with cheap-shots and overall dumb football aplenty. If the Bengals resort to playing this ugly style, the Steelers must not let it get their heads. They must play smart football, and not worry about being tough guys. I know that they have thicker skin than Cincinnati does in this regard, so I am confident that the Steelers can be the smarter team.

Odds of Excution: Fantastic 

Final Prediction

This is a ballgame that could go either way, but if I had to bet, I'd say the Steelers take this one. The Steelers looked two impressive in Week 1 for me to believe that they will lose in Week 2, and the home-field advantage will also be a factor. It will be close, but the Steelers are a better team than the Bengals, and they will prove to be slightly better on Sunday. The Steelers of the recent past have had early season struggles, and 2016 will be a little different.

Steelers 28, Bengals 23

NFL WEEK 2 Preview/Predictions

 

 

*Disclaimer: I will talk about Steelers-Bengals in a seperate preview*

Thursday
8:30
 ''Rex Ryan cares way more than he should'' game of the week
Jets (0-1) at Bills (0-1) 
This will be a tough game for the New York Jets regardless, as they are playing on the road against a tough Bills defense. But the reason I see Buffalo winning this game is due to Rex Ryan and his obsession with his old club. If the Bills go 2-14, and their only wins are against the New York Jets, Rex Ryan will at least be somewhat satisfied. Of course, Ryan also could be coaching for his job tonight, so he has no options.

Bills 28, Jets 24

Sunday
1:00
Who the hell cares part I
Titans (0-1) at Lions (1-0)

Both Matthew Stafford and Marcus Mariota are exciting QB's to watch. That's about the only thing this matchup has going for it.

Lions 35, Titans 23

The ''too easy to label as ''Who the hell cares''? game of the week
Ravens (1-0) at Browns (0-1)

The Ravens are an improved football team that will contend for a playoff spot. The Browns are the Browns, and now they are without RGIII. Ravens in an ugly one.

Ravens 28, Browns 10

Rivalry of the Week
Cowboys (0-1) at Redskins (0-1)

One of the NFL's best rivalries takes place at FedEx Field on Sunday afternoon. Both the Cowboys and Redskins had disappointing losses in Week 1, but I think Dallas is the better team. Dak Prescott will have his coming out party this week, and Big D will prove to be just too damn talented for Dan Snyder's boys to handle.

Dolphins (0-1) at Patriots (1-0) 
Will Tom Brady's suspension hurt the Patriots this week
No. 

This could get ugly
49ers (1-0) at Panthers (0-1)

Don't let that 28-0 opening night win fool you. The San Fransico 49ers are not a good football team, and that will be evident on Sunday. Say what you want about Cam Newton, but the guy is a competitor, and himself as well as his teamates are very pissed about losing that game in Denver. The 49ers will be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Panthers 42, 49ers 21

If you smell what the Brock is cooking
Chiefs (1-0) at Texans (1-0)

This will be a fun one. It will be interesting to see how the Texans offense matches up against KC's solid defensive unit. If this game were in the deafening Arrowhead Stadium, I would foresee a Chiefs win. But since KC is on the road, and since I think Brock Osweiler is going to be a stud, I like Houston in a close one.

Texans 28, Chiefs 21

4:05

The Hunt for Red September

The great Tom Clancy

Buccaneers (1-0) at Cardinals (0-1)

Tampa Bay is a young team on the rise, and they are a sleeper  in the NFC South. However, I expect Bruce Arians to regroup his troops after a crushing Sunday Night loss to New England at home. Teams like the Cardinals won't lose 2 in a row often, and this won't be an exception. The Bucs are good, but they ain't that good just yet.

Cards 35, Bucs 21

4:05

This could also get ugly
Seahawks (1-0) at Rams (0-1)
It looks like it's gonna be a long year for the LA Rams. I hope that this game is not a blowout, considering that it is the first pro football game played in Los Angeles since 1994. However, the Seahawks offense is bound to find itself after a poor performance against Miami on Sunday. Thomas Rowles will go off, and the LA fans will wish their team was still in St. Louis

Seahawks 34, Rams 10

4:25
Sorry, Rutz
Falcons (0-1) at Raiders (1-0) 
Falcons will lose this one.

David: Falcons have no pass rush, no running game, and Derek Carr is young, brilliant and has a terrific offense to helm. Raiders roll.

Meaningless, but entertaining 
Jags (0-1) at Chargers (0-1)
Jacksonville is an young, exciting team that will definatly be improved. They have a future All-Pro at QB in Blake Bortles, an electric offense, and a young defense that will be electryfing in 1 or 2 years. However, I don't think they are a playoff team just yet. The Chargers stink, but Philip Rivers and Blake Bortles should make for an exciting QB dual. I think that Jacksonville is more talented on offense, and that's what this shootout will come down to.

Jags 38, Chargers 35

RIP Peyton
Colts (0-1) at Broncos (1-0)

Please pray for Andrew Luck. If you haven't been watching, the Denver Broncos tend to kick the hell out of high-profile quarterbacks. Luck will fall straight in line.

Broncos 24, Colts 10

Bring Back Faith Hill

Packers (1-0) at Vikings (0-1)
Aaron Rodgers in prime time? Hard to bet against that.

Packers 34, Vikings 17. 


Bring back Hank Williams JR.
Eagles (1-0) at Bears (0-1)

It is ridiclious how bland Monday Night Football games have become. While I would like to pick the Eagles since I really like Carson Wentz, since I see Philly beating the Steelers in Week 3, I do not see Philly starting 3-0. Winners will be the Bears, but honestly, who cares?

Rutz: Bears surprise people at home with a more inspired performace than week 1. Carson Wentz underwhelms in his first road game

Stelers 38, Redskins 16: Off to the races

Photo creds to www.si.com

Hello, all. Monday night, the Pittsburgh Steelers kicked the hell out of the Washington Redskins. I'm here to talk about the many things that went right, as well as the few that went wrong. Let's get into it


What went right


Offense
Two words; powder keg. The Steelers have the best offense in the NFL, and I don't think there is any argument at the moment. Antonio Brown is the best wide receiver in the NFL, and I don't think there is any argument at the moment (sorry Odell Beckham fans). As good as the Steelers offense was on Monday, I don't think a lot of it was surprising. We all know how deadly the Roethlisberger-to-Brown combination is, and we are all aware how good of a running back DeAngelo Williams has turned into. The only thing that surprised me about last night, aside from the Norman vs. Brown matchup never happening, was how good the offensive line was. I knew that the Steelers were capable of big things up-front, but I did not think that they would jell that smoothly the first week of the season. There can still be an argument made about who has the best offensive line in the NFL (I still think it's Dallas), but the Black and Gold have defiantly thrown their name into the hat in the conversation.




In our offical 2016 Steelers season preview, my cousin Brad predicted rookie Eli Rodgers to have a breakout opening night at wide receiver. Rogers delivered, catching six balls for 59 yards and a whacky touchdown reception. I still think that, when Markus Wheaton is healthy, the #3 receiver job is Sammy Coates' to lose, but Rogers sure made a solid first impression to Todd Haley on Monday Night.


Speaking of Haley and the coaching staff, how about that play calling? 4th and short? Throw the ball, convert, and score. That's what you call fortitude. Many have been critical of Mike Tomlin's in-game coaching over the past few years, but he got it right on Monday night, and that's a big reason why this city has such a positive vibe over its football team.


I have been critical of DeAngelo Williams in the past due to what I feel is his unnecessary mouthing off on social media. But when it's game day, Williams is da man. 171 All-Purpose yards and two touchdowns speak for themselves, and the fact that he did it as a 33-year old backup deserves a tip of the hat. At this point, I don't think it's a stretch to say that, by the end of this season, if Williams and Le'Veon Bell can stay in good health, #34 and #26 could be talked about as the best 1-2 runningback punch in Steelers history.


I won't speak too much on Big Ben or AB. They are both badass, and that's all you need to know.


All in all, I don't think I can say anything about the Steelers offense that hasn't been said already. They will score more than Tiger Woods and Wilt Chamberlin's love child.


What went wrong
Offense
Uh, Jesse James needs to improve on his blocking. But hey, it's week one. James will be okay.

Defense
I'm still skeptical of Ryan Shazier's injury possibility, but the man is a boss when healthy. Shazier posted six tackles, forced a fumble, intercepted a pass, and did an excellent job at containing standout tight end, Jordan Reed. Shazier was, without question, the Steelers defensive MVP on Monday night.


Aside from Shazier, Robert Golden looked solid at safety, posting six combined tackles, and Javon Hargrave seems to be making a case for the Steeler's long-term answer at nose tackle.


What went wrong
The secondary still needs to improve. I know Kirk Cousins didn't play as well as his 329 yards passing would indicate, but Washington was able to get back into the game early in the 4th quarter, and the defense cannot let that become a pattern. However, it is only week one, and I still expect the Steelers secondary to be an improvement from 2015.


Overall, the Steelers defense was ok, and if this offense reaches Big Ben's goal of averaging 30 PPG, the defense being ok will be okay for this team.

Overall
Big Ben and AB are the greatest passing duo in Steelers history, and according to ESPN's Steven A. Smith, they may be the best duo in NFL history. While I wouldn't go quite that far yet, the Steelers will be, if nothing else, the most exciting team in the NFL. Enjoy the ride, Steeler nation. Enjoy the ride. 1-0.

2016 Pittsburgh Steelers Season Predictions

Hello all. It's Steeler season, and my cousin, Bradley W. Stewart, and I, have some things to say about what we think the Black and Gold will accomplish in 2016. The graphic explains a lot, and we'll explain the rest. Let's get into it.

Week 1
at Washington 

Joe: It all begins on tonight. The Steelers have a tough foe, as they will take on the defending NFC East champs in their house. However, I expect Kirk Cousins and the Redskins to regress this season, and that regression will start with a defeat at the hands of the Steelers. Antonio Brown will torch Josh Norman; twice, and the Steelers will pull away late. Even without Le'Veon Bell and Martavius Bryant, the Steelers will prove to be too talented for the Redskins. And no, Kirk Cousins, you will not like that.

Steelers 34, Redskins 20

Brad: This will be a relatively easy win for Pittsburgh. Expect a breakout performance from rookie wide receiver Eli Rodgers.
Week 2
Vs. Cincinnati 

Joe: This will be the most hyped up Steelers home opener in quite some time, and it will be a dogfight even without the chief punk, Vontaze Burfict. What concerns me most is the Steelers secondary taking on A.J. Green. Green is one of the best receivers in the NFL, and the thought of him going up against a suspect Steelers secondary keeps me up at night. However, I expect the Steelers to battle and get a big early win. Big Ben is a big-time player, and he will lead his troops to an early season victory. The Steelers have been unable to start out strong in the past few years, and that will change in 2016.


Steelers 28, Bengals 21

Brad: Yes, Vontaze Burfict is out. But Le'Veon Bell is a more important suspension for the Steelers than Burfict is for the Bengals, and I think the loss of Bell will be apparent in this game.

Week 3 
at Philidelphia 

Joe: Let's be clear. The Philidelphia Eagles are not better than the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, as we have seen, the Pittsburgh Steelers lose games that they should win. This trip to Lincoln Financial Field has trap game written all over it. Oh, and that Carson Wentz kid is pretty good

Eagles 24, Steelers 20

Brad: Ryan Shazier is going to destroy Carson Wentz. Antiono Brown will go off, and the Steelers will stick it to Philadelphia.



Week 4
vs. Kansas City

This will be a close game, but the Steelers defense harrassed Alex Smith the last time KC came to Heinz Field, and this will be one of those rare games where the D is the difference for the Steelers.

Steelers 24, Chiefs 14

Brad: The Steelers are not losing Le'Veon Bell's first game back

Week 5
vs. Jets

Joe: This is one of those toss-up games. If this were played in the Meadowlands, I would foresee a Jets victory. But, it's instead being played right here in the burg. It's going to take a tough team to come into Heinz Field this year and beat the Steelers, and I just don't think Ryan Fitzpatrick and the boys will have it in them.

Steelers 34, Jets 24

Brad: The Jets are an exciting team, and I expect them to beat the Steelers in a close game, with Matt Forte leading the way on the ground.



Week 6
@Miami 

Joe: Trap game? Maybe. But I have no confidence in the Dolphins offense. If they Steelers can score 20 points, they will win this game. Ben, AB, and a reinstated Le'Veon Bell will make sure that the Steelers accomplish this mission.

Steelers 25, Dolphins 10

Brad: The Dolphins will not beat Pittsburgh.

Week 7 
vs. New England 

Joe: Bad things happen when the Steelers face Tom Brady. Bad things.

Brad: The Steelers haven't beaten Tom Brady since 2011, and it won't happen this year.

Pats 24, Steelers 21

Week 9
at Baltimore

Joe: And Welcome back to this weeks addition of ''why the hell do the Steelers lose games they should win''? The Ravens beat the Steelers twice last year despite finishing with a record of 5-11. I can almost guarantee that Baltimore will not go 5-11 again. They will be better. If Ryan Mallet could beat the Steelers in Baltimore, I'm sorry to say that Joe Flacco can do the same. In short, Baltimore is slowly becoming to the Steelers what the Milwaukee Brewers are to the Pirates. Just obnoxious little fleas

Ravens 28, Steelers 17

Brad: These teams always seem to split the season series, and I think they do that again this year

Week 10
vs. Dallas

Joe: Ah, Steelers-Cowboys. If this game were in Big D, maybe my opinion would be different. But I am not sold that Dak Prescott is the real deal. The Cowboys defense will also have some problems, which Mr. Brown and Mr. Bell will gladly exploit.

Steelers 35, Cowboys 21

Brad: I think the Cowboys offense is going to be terrific. If Tony Romo is not back yet, Dak Prescott will still light up the Steelers secondary.

Week 11
at Cleveland 
I don't need to explain this one, do I?

Steelers 30, Browns 14

at Buffalo
Week 12

Too soon?

Joe: This will be the day that the Steelers vanquish their struggles with inferior competition. Nothing ever seems to go right in Buffalo, and Tyrod Taylor won't be able to change that. For the record, OJ was guilty.

Steelers 24, Bills 10

Brad: The Bills defense is no match for the Steelers potent offense.
Week 13
at Indianapolis  

Joe: The Steelers undressed the Colts last season. But that game was at Heinz Field, and Andrew Luck was not playing. I expect Luck and Roethlisberger to engage in a classic QB duel that is going to end in disappointment, with Luck hitting TY Hilton in the endzone with 45 seconds left. It will be one of those games that Pittsburgh can be proud of in spite of defeat.

Colts 38, Steelers 35

Brad: The Steelers have dominated the Colts in the past. That won't change this year.

Week 14
vs. Giants

Joe: I hate the New York football Giants. I hate Odell Beckham JR. Which is why it will only be fair that the Giants win this game in frustrating fashion. Eli Manning is good for at least one clutch 4th quarter drive per year. I fear that the 2016 edition will happen in Heinz Field.

Giants 34, Steelers 30

Brad: The Steelers always seem to have a trap game, and this will be that game this year.

at Cincinnati
Week 15

Joe: Here's the game of the year. Burfict is back. The stakes are high. Wait, let me say that again. The Stakes are high. The Cincinnati Bengals are playing, and the stakes are high. Those two things do not go together. The AFC North title hangs in the balance, and it will ultimately be decided by whatever team has the clutch gene in them. The Steelers will prove to have that, and will complete the season sweep over their hated rivals. And how will they do it? On a game-winning drive engineered by #7. Believe that.

Steelers 28, Bengals 24

Brad: Cincy doesn't have it in them to sweep the Steelers.

Week 16
vs. Baltimore 
At this point, the Steelers are rolling. They will be facing the prospect of losing four straight games to the dirty birds. They will be too hot and too motivated to let that happen on their home turf. Oh, and they are also the better team.

Steelers 35, Ravens 14
 Brad: Come on. Losing 5 in a row to Baltimore? Not going happen.

Week 17
Vs. Cleveland
Win

Joe: Now we move to the playoffs. I didn't  feel like describing how the Steelers will get to the big game, as the baby is what people want to see, not the labor. One thing will lead to another, and the Pittsburgh Steelers will end up facing off with Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers in Houston, Texas on February 5th, 2017. Here's how it's gonna go. The Steelers will take an early lead, and be up by a score of 24-14 at the half. Green Bay will tie things up late in the 3rd quarter, but that's all they'll do. Big Ben will hit AB; twice, in the end-zone to pull away from the Pack before the final whistle blows, giving the Steelers their 7th Lombardi.

Steelers 38, Packers 24

Another one for ''The Chief

Why do I think the Steelers will win the Superbowl? Well, for one, they have the best offense in the game, even with injuries. Second, they have been competitive over the past two years and have fallen short due to bad luck. The Steelers are winners, and I just have a feeling that this year is their time. Pittsburgh has arguably the most talented roster in the NFL, and I feel like this is the time that they spread their wings and fly. Get hype, Steeler nation. Tonight could very well be the start of a beautiful journey. My cousin is more negative, as you can see by the graphic. We don't need that negativity. We need a winner, and baby, you're going to get it.

Pitt-Penn State: Breakdown/Prediction

The big day is upon us. It's a Saturday that Western Pennsylvania sports fans have been waiting for since 2000, and judging by the title, you already know I'm talking about Pitt-Penn State. Before I get into breaking down the two teams, I'd like to say that, while Saturday is a very exciting day for the state of Pennsylvania, the sad fact is that Pitt-Penn State is not, and probably will never again be the phenomenon that it was in its heyday (1977-82). I can't confirm anything, since I wasn't alive back in the late 70's/early 80's. But both programs have lost a lot of luster since then, and since Eastern football has fallen off quite a bit (Syracuse used to be a power as well), I can't imagine this rivalry will be nearly that hot ever again. The fact that ABC chose to televise the Michigan-Central Florida game over this once nationally acclaimed pastime speaks volumes about the state of both Pitt and Penn State on the national radar. Nonetheless, both fan bases have every right to be pumped up. Let's get into the key match-ups to watch for Saturday, and who I think has the edge in each one. Oh, one more thing. Since I had originally planned to write a historical piece in addition to my match-up preview but never had time to do so, I will make up for it by posting random pictures from the past and briefly explaining their meaning. Let's get into it.

Pitt's D-Line vs. Penn State's O-Line

Taken from the last meeting in 2000. Pitt won that game, 12-0, and yinzers love to bring that up as if it is still relevant. 

Penn State's offensive line stinks, and you can thank Bill O'Brien for not recruiting enough big boys. I still wake up in a cold sweat over last season's opening loss at Temple in which the line allowed ten sacks. Although I did not get to watch this years season opener against Kent State, from what I have heard, there is still work that needs to be done from the boys up front. Pitt has a solid defensive line anchored by Ejuan Price, so I think the Panthers have the edge in the trenches. Although, assuming Penn State's O-Line hasn't improved drastically, that isn't saying much.

Edge: Pitt

Penn State's D-Line vs. Pitt's O-Line

LaVar Arington doing his thing, blocking David Fleischhauer's 52 yard field goal to preserve a 20-17 Penn State Victory

The defensive line is one area where Penn State has lost some talent, with defensive tackles Anthony Zettel and Austin Johnson as two notable departures. One key starter who is still here is defensive end Garret Sickles, who last week, recorded 1 of the seven sacks produced by the Penn State defense. Pitt's offensive line struggled against Villanova, and I don't think the O-Line will be a strong suit for the Panthers in 2016.

Edge: Penn State

Pitt's Secondary vs Penn State's Wide Receivers

Dan Marino was 2-2 against PSU in his 4 years at Pitt (see, 48-14)

This is the most intriguing match-up to watch, as I feel both teams are strong in these fields. Penn State has a talented group of receivers that hopefully new offensive coordinator Joe Moorehead will utilize much better than his predecessor John Donovan did. Chris Godwin is one of the better playmakers in the  Big 10, and Daesean Hamilton is not too far behind him. Pitt has an exciting and athletic group of defensive backs and safety's, led by Sophmore Jordan Whitehead, who was the 2015 ACC Rookie of the Year. Ryan Lewis and Avonte Maddox are both talented corners, and honestly, I don't know who has the edge in this match-up. So I'm calling it a push.

Push

Penn State's Secondary  vs. Pitt's Wide Receivers

Curt Warner was a national champion. Dan Marino was not

The Nittany Lions return 2 of 4 starters from last year's defensive backfield, and at least 3 of their starters this year can play. Free Safety Marcus Allen could be one of the better defensive backs in college football, while Grant Haley and Malik Golden are two more big time players coming out of the back. Pitt builds it's offense on running the ball, so don't expect new offensive coordinator Matt Canada to dial up many pass plays that will test Penn State. I don't think Pitt's receivers have the firepower to give Penn State too many problems in the defensive backfield

Edge: Penn State 

Now let's talk about the match-ups that won't be head-to-head, but will still have an impact on the outcome of this game

Linebackers

Just a good ole brawl. Gotta love those numbered helmets.

Linebacker U has two new products. Now Jason Cabinda and Brandon Bell might not yet be LaVar Arrington and Brandon Short, but they are both fine football players and will be ones to watch on Saturday. Pitt has a tough linebacking corp led by Mike Caprara, but I'll give PSU a slight edge, partly based on reputation.

Edge: Penn State 

Running backs

James Conner vs. Saquon Barkley. That's where the big debate is regarding running backs. I feel that, while Barkley is better than Conner (especially considering Conner has played one full game in the past year), Pitt's running game is deeper than Penn State's is. Qadree Ollison did a great job filling in for Conner as a redshirt freshman last season, and he should play a role tomorrow as the #2. Darren Hill is another solid running option for the Panthers. While Barkley might be the best offensive player in the Big 10, Penn State's backups are unproven. Akeel Lynch transferred to Nevada. Mark Allen didn't impress too much last season, and although much has been made of Miles Sanders, the freshman from Woodland Hills High School will be used mainly as a return man on special teams. So, because of the depth, I'll give the edge to Pitt.

Edge: Pitt

Special Teams

#22 John Cappelletti took home the Heisman in 1973. Tony Dorsett would get his 3 years later. 

It feels like Chris Blewitt has been kicking for Pitt since 2005. All kidding aside, he gets the job done. Penn State's kicking status isn't so secure. Joey Julius looks to be the man in the kicking game, but the big man struggled a bit towards the end of 2015, and the verdict is still out on #99. DeAndre Thompkins and Miles Sanders look to lead the way in the return game for Penn State, while Quadree Henderson is an explosive kick returner for Pitt who took a kickoff to the house in the season opener against Villanova. It's too early to tell exactly how things will play out with special teams, so I'll call this one push.

Push

Quarterbacks

Neither Nate Peterman or Trace McSorley have proven to be anything too extraordinary quite yet, but I'll give Pitt's Peterman the edge because of experience. Peterman is a senior who took over the QB job in Week 2 last year, while McSorley is a sophomore who made his first start last Saturday. Both are fairly even, but Peterman is more experienced and savvy.

Edge: Pitt

Final Prediction

I think this game could go either way. Because of that, I was tempted to pick Penn State due to my allegiance to the Blue and White. However, I decided that if I were a neutral fan, I would pick Pitt to win this game. So that's what I'm going to do here. I feel that Penn State has better athletes than Pitt, but this game gets decided in the trenches. Pitt's defensive line will overpower Penn State's offensive line, making life tough for Barkley and company, and that will be the main difference in this defensive battle. Nate Peterman will play a smart game at QB, making the big plays when he needs to, however often that may be, while Trace McSorley will get rattled and throw at least one key INT. It will be close, but Pitt is a 6 point favorite for a reason. They have the home field advantage, and I feel that the Panthers will be very motivated and overall, smarter than Penn State is. So, I'm sorry to say.

Pitt 23, Penn State 17

And so, the Panthers will make the one game that kids are willing to make the daunting drive from Oakland to the North Shore for worthwhile.

2016 Penn State Football Breakdown

Hello, all. Saturday marks the beginning of the 130th season of Penn State football. The Lions have an exciting schedule, so I'm going to write about every game, who will win it, and how it will happen. Just to clarify, I will not be breaking down Penn States roster, giving in depth reasons why they will win or lose games,  and, most importantly, I will not be breaking down the Pitt game. I will save that for when the time comes.
Week 1
The Nittany Lions roll to an opening day win. Saquon Barkley rushes for 145 yards and a touchdown, while Trace McSorley puts together a solid debut at QB, going 17-24 with 250 yards and 2 TD;s one to Chris Godwin, and another to Daesean Hamilton. On defense, Jason Cabinda and Brandon Bell both shine at linebacker, with Cabinda picking off a pass and recovering a fumble. The Lions win easily against a cream puff.
Penn State 42, Kent State 10

Week 3
vs. Temple
Barkley explodes again, rushing for 165 yards and two TD's The Penn State defense is relentless all day, and everyone forgets about Temple's 27-10 drubbing of Penn State last year. The Lions will have too much talent and motivation to lose this one
Penn State 27, Temple 10

Week 4
at #7 Michigan
Jim Harbaugh has not decided on whether to start Wilton Speight or John O'Korn at quarterback, but whoever gets the nod will have Jehu Chesson to throw to. Chesson will carve the PSU secondary up for 135 yards receiving and two touchdowns. Trace McSorley receives a harsh introduction to Big 10 football via way of a Jabril Peppers pick six late in the first quarter, and will go on to have an erratic game passing the ball. Sequon Barkley will be the one shining light on the PSU offense, rushing for 82 yards and a touchdown. PSU will score a touchdown in garbage time to make the score seem closer than it was, but it will be too little too late, and the Nittany Lions will suffer their first loss.


Michigan 36, Penn State 21


Week 5
vs. Minnesota
The defense will be the story of this matchup. Jason Cabinda will step up with 2.5 sacks and a fumble recovery, while Garret Sickles will pick up a big INT late to seal the win. McSorley will struggle a bit, but Sequon Barkley and Miles Sanders will combine for over 150 yards rushing the ball, and Penn State will pull away from a scrappy Minnesota bunch.


Penn State 27, Minnesota 13

Week 6
vs. Maryland 
Maryland is tricky. They look to be an awful team this year, as they were in 2015, but I still have a feeling that they will play Penn State tough... at least for a little bit. QB Perry Hills will have his moments, but at the end of the day, the Nittany Lions will be too much, mainly due to McSorley having his best game of the season, through for 330 yards and three touchdowns. A Jason Cabinda INT will seal the deal late in the 4th quarter.

Penn State 35, Maryland 24

Week 8
vs. Ohio State
Yes, the Nittany Lions get the Buckeyes at home. But this Penn State team is not ready to compete with Urban Meyer's athletes just yet. Penn State will keep thing tight in the first half, mainly due to adrenaline, but J.T. Barret will go off in the second half, rushing for two touchdowns and throwing for one more.

Ohio State 35, Penn State 17

Week 9
at Purdue
McSorley throws for 315 yards, while Sanders and Barkley both rush for 75+. Purdue is a joke, and the Lions will have too much firepower

Penn State 44, Purdue 14

Week 10
vs. Iowa
Iowa is a damn good football team that could win the Big 10. But playing in Beaver Stadium at night is one of the toughest things to do in college football. I have a feeling that the Penn State defense will rise to the occasion, Garret Sickles will sack C.J. Beathard twice, the second one forcing a fumble Tamba Hali style.

Penn State 17, Iowa 14

Week 11
at Rutgers 
Rutgers will be a tough game for Penn State, as Piscataway is an underrated place to play regarding toughness. The Scarlet Knights will lead Penn State late in the 3rd quarter, before SeQuon Barkley takes over, rushing for two fourth-quarter touchdowns to put the game away.

Penn State 31, Rutgers 20.
Week 12
at Indiana
Indiana has beaten Penn State once since PSU joined the Big 10 in 1993. This won't be the second time.

Week 12

Week 13
vs. Michigan State
Penn State will not get embarrassed by Sparta the way they did last November. The Spartans will get all they can handle. However, Tyler O'Connor (300 yards, 3 TD's) will make enough big plays, squeak Sparty by,  and win yet another Land Grant Trophy.