Pittsburgh is coming off an 8-5 year, a season in which the Panthers beat the reigning National Champion Clemson Tigers in a shootout in Death Valley and Big Ten Champion Penn State at home. However, can Pitt do better this year and contend for an ACC Coastal Division Championship, again.
It will be tough challenge after losing arguably the best running back in college football James Conner.
Who they lost: The Panthers are lost a lot of talent from the 2016 team, headlined by Conner’s entry into the NFL Draft. The cancer survivor bounced back like a true competitor, rushing for 1,092 yards and 16 touchdowns to go along with four receiving touchdowns. If given the carries other star backs got, he could have eclipsed even greater numbers. They are also saying goodbye to starting quarterback Nathan Peterman, who threw 27 touchdown passes last season. They are losing the heart of their offense in offensive guard Dorian Johnson and tight end Scott Orndoff, who was second on the team in receiving yards. On the defensive side of the ball, Pitt is losing considerable talent. The Panthers are losing pass rusher Ejuan Price who was a monster off the edge with 23 tackles for a loss, 13 of which being sacks. They are also losing cornerback Ryan Lewis who was second on the team in tackles and also had two interceptions.
Who is coming back: One of the returning players is wide receiver Quadree Henderson, whose receiving stats were nothing to write home about, a mere 286 yards and one touchdown. What were impressive about him was his running capabilities, putting together 631 yards rushing on only 60 carries. Leading receiver Jester Weah will also be returning. He had 870 yards receiving on only 36 receptions, while averaging 24.2 yards a reception. Defensively cornerback Avonte Maddox will be returning, who had 49 tackles and led the team in interceptions with three.
Recruiting class: Pitt has a decent recruiting class coming in, ranked 36th nationally. The Panthers are bringing in some talent, but all of it is overshadowed by top recruit, safety Paris Ford, who is ranked 53rd overall nationally and is the only player in the class ranked in the top 200 for the Panthers.
2017 Schedule: The Panthers have a very tough schedule this upcoming season. One of their key games will be on Sept. 9th against Penn State at Happy Valley. It will be a tough in state game against the Big Ten Champions. Another will be Nov. 18th against Virginia Tech, who will most likely be a ranked opponent.
Projected finish: 4-8
We are taking orders for our limited edition magazine Mission Accomplished. Remember Clemson’s championship season with this great magazine from the staff that covers Clemson football 365 days a year. Order your’s today to make sure you get a copy!
