Pitt completely annihilated the Delaware Blue Hens on Saturday afternoon, scoring the most points ever at Heinz Field, with a 62-0 route.
Looking back, here are my takeaway points from the blowout:
1. Pitt did what it was supposed to against a FCS opponent. It was the first time Delaware was shut out since 1996 (220 games). This was a much better outcome than two years ago against Youngstown State, where Pitt looked lethargic under senior QB Tino Sunseri and lost 31-17.
2. It is nice to see a mobile, play-making QB for the Panthers. If needed, Chad Voytik can scramble and make a play. When is the last time Pitt fans saw this luxury? It is an added weapon to an arsenal with a bruising RB and play-making WR. Much of Pitt’s success this season will depend on the play of Voytik, who could elevate this offense to a level we had not seen in a while.
3. Pitt’s experienced offensive line looked solid. This is an unusual strength for Pitt. They had their way with the Blue Hens, as Pitt racked up 407 rushing yards compared to 40 for Delaware. Most of last year’s line has returned this year, so they are familiar with one another and on a mission to protect their playmakers.
4. RB James Conner and WR Tyler Boyd are special. These two sophomores are the playmakers for the Panthers, and these two could carry Pitt very far. Boyd dislocated a finger and did not play in the second half. These two will be tough to stop this season, and we saw that the Blue Hens had no answer for Conner. He numerously ran over defenders en route to nearly 150 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns.
5. Pitt’s defense continues to shut down the run. Today they shut down just about everything Delaware had to offer, but the defense has not given up a 100-yard rusher in 9 consecutive games. Three interceptions led to great field position for the offense.
6. Though young, Pitt looks to build upon last season’s success. Now that we are in the third season for Chryst, the majority of players on Pitt are his guys, though Pitt is very young with much potential. The Panthers have the most number of freshmen and sophomores in FBS, yet they looked like the more experienced team on Saturday.
Photo Credit: AP Photo | KEITH SRAKOCIC
