SB Nation's own Bill Connelly is making his way through preseason college football previews and took a look at Pitt this year. Connelly cited some positives for the team, but in the end, doesn't think the Panthers will contend in the Big East:
↵↵↵I just don't know what to think. The offense fits the new coach's philosophy, and the defense has both consistency and upside on its side. But how do you handle moving to your third offense and your third defense in three seasons? In a sport where intuitive action is key -- if you're thinking, you aren't playing quickly enough -- how could this roster possibly play to its full potential? I am comfortable enough with this team to think another bowl season is possible, but they probably won't be in a position to contend for a Big East crown by any means.
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I wrote earlier this morning on Cardiac Hill that while the team might not win the conference, they should at least be able to contend. But that's just one man's opinion and judging by the numerous preseason previews ranking Pitt in the middle of the Big East, it's not exactly a popular one.
↵As Connelly notes earlier in the article, the numerous coaching changes have certainly affected the team. But even though the offensive and defensive schemes are changing again, the Panthers are at least getting back to a system on both sides of the ball for which most of the players were recruited. It will be a bit different making yet another change, but most of the team has played in a pro style offense and 4-3 defense either under Dave Wannstedt or in high school. That should help make the adjustment a bit easier.
↵For more on Pitt football, check out SB Nation's Pitt blog, Cardiac Hill.
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