Pitt (5-1, 2-1 ACC) is learning to win without its quarterback. Mason Heintschel tore his ACL against Virginia Tech, and Holden Geriner made his first career start last Saturday in a 21-17 loss to North Carolina. Now Pitt turns to true freshman Corey Dailey, who has no career starts, as the Panthers head to Chestnut Hill to face Boston College (2-3, 0-2) at noon on ESPN2.
Pittsburgh insider Dominic "Yinz" Bertolucci grades every tackle on a "yinz-to-yikes" scale and says the defense is the steel. ESPN rates it 30th nationally, against a Boston College offense ranked near the bottom of the country. Boston College insider Siobhan Dunleavy argues every play like a moot-court case. Her exhibit is Mason McKenzie, the Eagles' leading passer and leading rusher, plus an open week to prepare for a true freshman making his first career start.
Pitt's final report rules out safety Josh Guerrier, running back Ja'Kyrian Turner and cornerback Rashan Murray, and defensive tackle Nick James is a game-time decision. Boston College is also missing two defensive backs and running back Sedric Addison. The weather could matter most of all, with gusts near 39 mph forecast. That should keep the ball on the ground and favor the steadier defense.
Our call: Pittsburgh 24, Boston College 15.