Scouting report: Win at Pitt would make the Tar Heels a favorite in Coastal

UNC (6-1, 3-0) at No. 23 Pitt (6-1, 4-0)

Kickoff: 7 p.m. Thursday, Heinz Field, Pittsburgh

TV/Radio: ESPN, WTKK-106.1

Pitt’s strength: Pitt has gotten it done defensively, thanks in part to an offense that ranks 15th nationally in time of possession. At times the Panthers have simply played keep away. They’ve allowed the second-fewest plays of any team that has played seven games.

The defense has been decent enough on a per-play basis, though (44th nationally in yards per play allowed at 5.24) and Pitt is tied for 14th nationally in sacks, with an average of 3.14 per game. It’s a defense that is known for creative blitzes and pressure.

Offensively, it’s the Tyler Boyd show. The junior receiver has caught 53 passes and is used in a variety of ways all over the field.

Key theme: Can UNC win a big game that can put it in control of the Coastal Division? The Tar Heels haven’t exactly risen to the moment in games like these under coach Larry Fedora. UNC wasted a chance for a statement win this year against South Carolina, but now the Tar Heels have something of a make-up opportunity. A win at Pitt would assure UNC a spot in the national rankings next week and would make it the favorite in the Coastal Division.

Andrew Carter

This story was originally published October 28, 2015 at 6:53 PM with the headline "Scouting report: Win at Pitt would make the Tar Heels a favorite in Coastal."