Pittsburgh Panthers
Preview

WEAKNESSES

Offensive line

They have to find someone to replace LT Charles Spencer or a repeat of 2005 (3.2 yards a rush) is possible. To have a successful running game Pitt will need the line to open up holes and limit the penetration by the defensive line - something they struggled with as a unit in 2005.

Receivers

Greg Lee's departure means that for the first time in recent memory the Panthers will be without a go-to receiver. Junior Derek Kinder was second on the team in yards and receptions last year but lacks explosiveness. Several redshirt and true freshmen, led by Dorin Dickerson, have talent and will be expected to contribute.

Defensive line

The biggest holes on the team are the holes that opposing OLs carved into the Panthers' DL last season. And with spots opening up at both tackle positions, youth and inexperience will again be a weakness. The key for the unit is to keep would-be-blockers off linebacker H.B. Blades to allow him to roam freely and make plays.

STRENGTHS

Secondary

Junior All-American CB Darrelle Revis headlines a group of talented defensive backs who last year held opponents to a Big East best 152.8 passing yards a game. The departure of corner Josh Lay leaves big shoes to fill opposite Revis, but junior Kennard Cox and senior Reggie Carter will be pushed by several true freshmen. SS Sam Bryant was voted by the coaches as the Panthers' most improved player in 2005, and safety Mike Phillips is healthy again.

Linebackers

Standout senior H.B. Blades will have some help this year. Junior Clint Session has seemingly climbed his way out of Wannstedt's doghouse and should display the hitting prowess that made him a player to watch in 2004. As a unit they are undersized but what they lack in size they make up with speed, as sophomore Tommie Campbell and Session can move.

Quarterback

While the numbers might not always be there, senior Tyler Palko is a proven winner. He shrugged off slow starts in both 2004 and 2005 to finish strong and it is hard to imagine him allowing a repeat of last season's disappointment.