Pittsburgh Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2017

The Virginia Tech Hokies enter this game looking scary good on defense but their offense will see some turnover in 2017. The Hokies pulled out a close 39-36 victory last season over the Pittsburgh Panthers, they’ll look to win another close one, this time in Blacksburg.

The Hokies gained 556 total yards of offense, 29 first downs and forced two turnovers to squeak out a close one last season. With quarterback Jerod Evans and receivers Bucky Hodges and Isaiah Ford gone, Virginia Tech will look to retool under head coach Justin Fuente in his second season.

Fuente’s offense made a lot of strides in 2016. The Hokies ranked 33rd in the FBS in scoring offense (35.0 ppg). They ranked 52nd in 2015. They averaged 261.9 passing yards per game (35th in the FBS), showcasing the pass-heavy strategy of Fuente. In 2015, they averaged 225.8 passing yards per game.

Pittsburgh will have their hands full all game as Virginia Tech will challenge their secondary for much of the game, like last year. Evans threw for 406 yards and two touchdowns last season. Whoever the Hokies signal caller is come November will put on a similar performance.

The Panthers and Hokies usually play close games no matter the circumstance. With positioning in the Coastal becoming a priority, look for the Hokies to get a victory here.

Final: Virginia Tech 35, Pittsburgh 27 (7-4, 5-2 ACC)