Pittsburgh Panthers vs Miami Hurricanes Predictions

Pitt's quarterback change favors Miami

NBC Sports reports that Pitt quarterback Mason Heintschel is out for the season with a torn ACL and Corey Dailey is expected to make his second start. Dailey completed 11 of 25 passes for 193 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in an October 17 loss at Boston College.

Miami entered this matchup 6-0 overall and 4-0 in the ACC. Quarterback Darian Mensah threw for 326 yards and three touchdowns as the Hurricanes gained 583 yards against Florida State, giving Miami the clearest path to victory.

The 19.5-point spread is harder to justify

Pitt rushed for 199 yards against Boston College, including 119 from Damon Ferguson Jr. That running game could reduce Dailey's burden and shorten the game, which matters with Pittsburgh getting 19.5 points.

Miami's defense allowed season highs of 35 points and 443 yards against Florida State, including 138 yards on the ground. One poor defensive performance doesn't establish value on Pitt, but it leaves too little support for laying nearly three touchdowns.

Betting outlook

SPF lists Miami at -1650, Pittsburgh at +950 and the total at 48.5. The moneyline return is too small, while the available evidence doesn't establish an edge on either the spread or total. Pass. Pittsburgh Panthers Athletics confirms the teams meet at noon Saturday at Hard Rock Stadium, with ESPN televising the game.