Rashawn Jackson and the running backs could play leading roles this week.

The Pittsburgh defense has not been sending a ton of thank you cards to the offense the last two weeks. According to Virginia’s Al Groh, close to 75% of the points the Panthers have allowed over the last few games have come as a result of offensive turnovers. That will get you thrown off the Christmas list in a hurry. Despite the recent philanthropy on the part of the offense, Pitt enters this game with a defense that is among the top 25 nationally in seven defensive categories. In other words, UVa’s offense is in for a test.

After giving up 335 yards last season to Michigan State, the Panthers bottled up the Spartans’ offense holding MSU to 2.8 YPC on the ground, while MSU quarterback Brian Hoyer went just 14 of 28 for 183 yards. The Pitt pass rush generated six sacks in the game.

Connecticut fared no better, rushing for just 115 yards and throwing for 174 but the Huskies put together three 60-yard plus drives, scoring on all three. The Hoos will look to do the same as they face a formidable defensive foe for the second week in row.

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