The Pittsburgh Panthers are set for a challenging test as they host the Syracuse Orange on Thursday. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best college football odds from the top sportsbooks.
NCAAF Pick: Syracuse +5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Syracuse vs. Pittsburgh
Thursday, October 24, 2024 – 07:30 PM ET at Acrisure Stadium
Syracuse Edges NC State
Kyle McCord continued his stellar season, throwing for 346 yards and two touchdowns to lead Syracuse past NC State 24-17 on October 12. McCord was highly efficient, completing 31 of 42 passes, while LeQuint Allen chipped in with 119 total yards and a touchdown on 23 touches. Jackson Meeks was McCord’s favorite target, hauling in 11 passes for 116 yards, including one of McCord’s touchdown passes.
Syracuse took control of the game late in the third quarter, with Justin Barron making a pivotal interception and returning it 53 yards to halt an NC State drive that was approaching the red zone. The Orange capitalized on the turnover with a touchdown pass from McCord to Meeks on fourth-and-goal, extending their lead.
McCord’s leadership has been key to Syracuse’s success this season. The Ohio State transfer has thrown for over 300 yards in all six games, tying a single-season record for the Orange. His ability to guide the offense has given Syracuse a much-needed boost under head coach Brown. Defensively, Barron’s playmaking, which included a fumble recovery and a team-leading eight tackles, helped secure the victory and gave Syracuse its first back-to-back road wins since 2012.
Pittsburgh’s Defensive Dominance Over California
On the other side, Pittsburgh’s defense powered them to a 17-15 victory over California on October 12, marking the Panthers’ first 6-0 start in 42 years. Pittsburgh’s offense struggled mightily, managing just 277 yards of total offense—well below their season average. However, their defense more than made up for it, racking up six sacks and consistently pressuring the Cal offense.
Desmond Reid was the offensive spark for Pittsburgh, rushing for 120 yards, including a 72-yard touchdown on a daring 4th-and-1 play from their own 28-yard line. Reid added another short touchdown run, while kicker Ben Sauls contributed with a booming 58-yard field goal.
However, Pittsburgh’s quarterback Eli Holstein had a rough outing, completing just 14 of 28 passes for 133 yards and throwing two interceptions in Cal territory. Despite the offensive struggles, Pittsburgh’s defense, led by head coach Pat Narduzzi’s adjustments, stepped up when needed, helping the team grind out a tough win.
Keys to the Game
McCord has been the driving force behind Syracuse’s offense, throwing for over 300 yards in every game this season. His chemistry with wide receiver Meeks, who had 11 catches for 116 yards against NC State, will be crucial in this matchup.
Pittsburgh’s defense, which recorded six sacks against California, will need to apply similar pressure to disrupt McCord’s rhythm. If the Panthers can collapse the pocket and force McCord to make quick decisions, they could slow down Syracuse’s high-flying passing attack.
Allen’s ability to complement McCord’s passing game has been a major asset for Syracuse. In his last game, he totaled 119 yards and a touchdown, providing a balanced offensive approach. Pittsburgh’s defense has been solid against the run, but Allen’s versatility could cause problems if he can find lanes to run through or exploit the defense in the passing game. If Pittsburgh can contain Allen and force Syracuse into a one-dimensional attack, they’ll have a better chance of keeping McCord in check.
Holstein has had a rollercoaster of a season and will need to be more efficient against Syracuse’s opportunistic defense. Holstein’s two interceptions against California were costly, and Syracuse, led by Barron, will look to capitalize on similar mistakes. Barron’s interception and fumble recovery against NC State were game-changing, and his ability to disrupt plays in the secondary could be a deciding factor. Holstein will need to protect the ball better and avoid turnovers if Pittsburgh is to have a chance.
Special teams and turnovers could swing this game in either direction. Syracuse’s defense has thrived on forcing turnovers, as seen with Barron’s crucial plays last week. If Syracuse can force Holstein into mistakes, it could give the Orange a significant edge. On the other hand, Pittsburgh’s kicker Sauls has shown the ability to convert from long range, and his accuracy could be critical in a low-scoring game where every point matters.
NCAAF Pick
This matchup is shaping up to be a defensive battle. While McCord’s consistency and experience give Syracuse the edge on offense, Pittsburgh’s defense is more than capable of keeping the game close. The key will be whether Holstein can limit mistakes and whether Pittsburgh’s defense can keep McCord from finding his rhythm. If Pittsburgh’s defense can replicate their pressure from last week, it could be a low-scoring, grind-it-out affair. That said, I like Syracuse in this spot.
NCAAF Pick: Syracuse +5 (-110) at Bet365
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