Florida State has to get back on track. They have lost two consecutive games, and both have been in the ACC. On Saturday, they look to avoid a 0-3 start in the conference when they host the Pittsburgh Panthers in Doak Campbell Stadium.
The Seminoles are heavy favorites. However, this won’t be a picnic for them by any means. Despite having a 3-2 record, Pittsburgh can play with any team in the ACC, especially because of its defense.
If FSU wants any shot of competing for the conference title in December, it can’t afford to drop a third conference game. Here are five things to know about Pittsburgh.
They struggle to run the ball
Pittsburgh only rushes the football for 116 yards a game, which is ranked 109th in the country. Florida State’s defense surrenders just 108 yards every time they step on the field. The Seminoles have a shot to make them one-dimensional in this one.
Rushing defense is stout
The battle between FSU’s offense and the defensive line of Pittsburgh will be a determining in this game. Pittsburgh gives up just 64 yards on the ground per game, which is second in the nation. Florida State has the No. 2 rushing offense in the country. This be a tough matchup for the big boys on FSU’s offensive line.
Terrible team offensively on third down
For the season, Pittsburgh is one of the worst teams on third down. They only convert 37.3% which is ranked 93rd in the country. This also explains why they only hold the ball for 27 minutes a game. If Florida State holds up defensively in this area, they’ll have a great shot to win.
Red zone defense is poor
For as good as Pittsburgh is against the run, they don’t do well in the red zone. Teams have cashed in on 15 out of the 16 trips they’ve had inside the 20 on Pittsburgh with 11 touchdowns scored. Florida State needs to have drives deep into Pittsburgh territory as much as possible.
They have three capable wide receivers
Raphael Williams Jr. and Catarius Hicks are both averaging over 17 yards per catch, with the former leading the team in receiving yards (320) and touchdown receptions (4). Kenny Johnson leads the team in catches with 21. FSU defensive coordinator Tony White will have his hands full.
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This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: Five things about the Pittsburgh Panthers before matchup vs. Florida State
Reporting by Matthew Lenix , FSU Wire / FSU Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
