Penn State Football: 3 reasons Nittany Lions will beat Pitt in Week 3

STATE COLLEGE, PA - SEPTEMBER 07: Pat Freiermuth #87 of the Penn State Nittany Lions celebrates after Noah Cain #21 of the Penn State Nittany Lions scores a touchdown against the Buffalo Bulls during the second half at Beaver Stadium on September 07, 2019 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

2. Nittany Lions’ defense will feast

Against Buffalo in Week 2, the Nittany Lions surprisingly gave up a ton of yardage and let Buffalo control the clock, especially in the first half. This week the defense will get back on track and do what they do best.

Penn State entered the 2019 season with more questions on offense than defense. They have solid options at the defensive end position with the star being Yetur-Gross Matos. The linebackers are very athletic, led by Cam Brown and Micah Parsons. If anything would be considered a weak spot on this side of the ball, it is the secondary but they are still good. Cornerback John Reid jumped a route against Buffalo and returned the interception 36 yards for a score.

One of the big problems for the Panthers so far has been their offensive line. The Pitt rushing attack is averaging 39 yards per game against Virginia and Ohio. The passing game was a little better against Ohio last week than it was against Virginia.

It is tough to expect the Pitt offense will suddenly get going against Penn State. The Lions will correct the mistakes they had against Buffalo and will tee up against the Panthers. Expect Penn State to record at least three sacks and create a couple turnovers to flummox the Panthers.

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