Pittsburgh at SMU
(NCAAF) Panthers (PIT) vs. Mustangs (SMU),
Point Spread: 7.50 | -115.00 Panthers (PIT) (Away)
Result: Loss
Not often do we get an undefeated team in November catching this many points from the oddsmakers. But Pat Narduzzi's Panthers fir that bill on Saturday after showing great resilience in early comeback wins over Cincy and nearby West Virginia, and holding their nerve in tight wins over North Carolina and Cal. Leadership from Alabama transfer QB Eli Holstein (17 TDP vs. just 5 picks; given the clear at midweek by Narduzzi) has allowed Pitt to maintain its poise. Holstein has also proven a decent dual-threat, already running for nearly 300 yards, while jr. RFB Desmond Reid provides balance, having cracked the 100-yard barrier in wins over the Bearcats and Golden Bears. Narduzzi's defense also picked of Syracuse's Kyle McCord five times (three pick-sixes!) in last Thursday's 41-13 romp past the Orange. The 7-1 Mustangs are formidable, but were also fortunate to escape with a win last week at Duke, and soph QB Kevin Jennings (who has been cleared to play), while dangerous, has also tossed four picks in the last two games. Play Pittsburgh