2009 College Football Predictions: Pittsburgh Panthers

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This is a continuation of our series on our exclusive 2009 college football predictions.  Follow all of our 2009 college football predictions here (team by team) or here (by conference).

Pittsburgh Panthers

2008 Record: (9-4, 5-2)
Coach: Dave Wannstedt, 5th year, (25-23)
Off. Coordinator: Frank Cignetti (1st year)
Def. Coordinator: Phil Bennett (2nd year)
Returning Starters:14(7 offense, 7efense)
Ret. Starting Quarterback: Yes(Bill Stull)

Offense: Dave Wannstedt finally seemed to have turned things around after going 9-4 last year. It all starts with getting players and Pitt has recruited top-25 classes the last three seasons. This year, they could use some consistency at the quarterback position to get to the next level. Senior Bill Stull (6-3, 215) returns at quarterback but he will have some competition. Stull completed 57 percent of his passes for 2,356 yards and just nine TDs with 10 picks last year. The offense relied on RB LaSean McCoy last season and now he’s not there to save the offense. Junior Pat Bostick (6-3, 220) was the starter in 2007, but has been injury-prone. At running back freshmen Dion Lewis and Chris Burnes should vie for the starting job. The Panthers have big-play tight ends in seniors Dorin Dickerson (6-2, 230) and Nate Byham (6-3, 255). At receiver, sophomore Jonathan Baldwin (6-5, 220) averaged 22.4 yards per reception, catching 18 passes for 404 yards. The offensive line has some experience and natural talent with three starters returning.

Defense: The defense allowed 21.5ppg and 317.2 yards per game last year. They return seven starters including three from the defensive line. Senior Mick Williams (6-1, 285) is a dominant player on the inside and one of the best on the line. Juniors Greg Romeus (7.5 sacks) and Jabaal Sheard (5.5 sacks) seem to always be in the backfield at defensive end. At linebacker, they lose top MLB Scott McKillop, but the loss was eased when Adam Gunn was granted a sixth year of eligibility. In the secondary, they return three starters and junior Elijah Fields (6-2, 220), who finally gets a chance to show his enormous ability.

Outlook: The Pittsburgh Panthers have a fairly easy opening three games facing Youngstown State, Navy and Buffalo. After that, NC State at home and Louisville on the road are not gimmes. They also take on Notre Dame at home and West Virginia on the road, which could decide the conference. Wannstedt should be safe for another year, but it would be nice if they can find a dynamic starting quarterback.

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