Pitt Football: 2022 Way-Too-Early Game Predictions
By Kathryn Rose
Syracuse has more roster continuity than any team in any power conference, as only star defensive end Cody Roscoe leaves. Other than Roscoe, nearly the entire defense is back for another year. Offensively, all-American running back Sean Tucker returns after setting the Syracuse record for rushing yards in a single season.
With so many players back, Syracuse should improve markedly from their 5-7 record a year ago. However, this Pitt team still holds a pretty solid talent advantage and should get the win at home.
Final score: Pitt 30, Syracuse 17 (Pitt 8-1, 4-1 in ACC)
Tony Elliott’s record as an offensive coordinator has been mixed, to say the least. Clemson fans were glad to be rid of him, and he’s a definite downgrade from Bronco Mendenhall, who built Virginia from ACC bottom-dweller into a respectable squad.
Sure, this team loses tight end Jelani Woods to the NFL and center Olusegun Oluwatimi to Michigan, but 4,000+ yard passer Brennan Armstrong, all-ACC wideout Dontayvion Wicks, and do-it-all offensive player Keytaon Thompson return.
However, it’s hard to see Pitt losing this contest, given the Panther defense can likely outgun the Virginia offense.
Final score: Pitt 38, Virginia 27 (Pitt 9-1, 5-1 in ACC)