South Florida Vs. Pitt: Panthers Express Optimism Despite Losses

The Pittsburgh Panthers look to rebound after two heart-wrenching losses in back to back weeks against the Iowa Hawkeyes and Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Even with the losses and how the team lost, the Panthers are optimistic heading into their match up with Big East opponent No. 16-ranked South Florida.

Pitt defensive tackle Chas Alecxih expresses optimism about the Panthers' chances:

"We have a great opportunity here," Pitt defensive tackle Chas Alecxih said in a phone interview. "The key is recognizing we played good in both games, but it wasn't good enough to win and realizing that we have to get the mistakes corrected if we don't want that bitter taste again. I think we're really doing a good job of that. We had an excellent practice (Monday), and a really good one (Tuesday)."

The Panthers played well until the end in both losses, so they'll be looking to continue their good play but hold on in the end. Against the Hawkeyes, the Panthers held a 27-3 lead but gave up 28 points in the final 17 minutes of the game. The Panthers will be looking to slow down Bulls quarterback BJ Daniels and right the ship.

Game date / time: 8:00 pm ET, Saturday, September 29

Location: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PA

TV channel: ESPN/ESPN3

Spread: Pittsburgh favored by 3

For further reading, news, discussion and more, visit SB Nation's Pittsburgh blog Cardiac Hill and its South Florida blog, Voodoo Five. Also, check out SB Nation's college football news hub.