Pitt Football: Can Panthers repeat as ACC Coastal champs in 2019?

New sheriff in town to call the offense

Pitt’s offense a year ago was not lighting fires, especially in the last three games where the Panthers scored a total of 26 points. It was enough to cost Shaun Watson his job as offensive coordinator. In his place is Mark Whipple, the former head coach at UMass.

One of Whipple’s big tasks will be turning around quarterback Kenny Pickett’s young career. In his first year as a starter, Pickett threw shy of 2,000 yards. He threw 12 touchdowns, was picked off six times and had a 58.1 completion percentage. He was also sacked 33 times but a lot of those sacks can be contributed to shaky line play.

Speaking of the offensive line, it must replace four starters. They have to improve in both pass protection and run blocking. The offense no longer has the benefit of 1,000-yard running backs Qadree Ollison and Darrin Hall in the backfield. Junior AJ Davis should be the opening day starter but Mychale Salahuddin and V’Lique Carter will be in the mix as well. Pitt’s had success under Narduzzi at the running back spot so they won’t shy away from running the ball.

Four of the top five leading receivers a year ago are back including senior Maurice Ffrench, who had 35 receptions, 515 yards and six touchdowns last season. Also back is receiver Taysir Mack who led the team with 557 yards on just 25 catches a year ago.

UMass may have had trouble stopping offenses and had a poor running game, but they did not lack a passing game under Whipple. Pickett and his receivers could thrive and improve their numbers under Whipple’s guidance.