Miami Hurricanes offense carrying confidence from NC State to Pittsburgh

After gaining 420 yards in a 31-30 victory against North Carolina State last Saturday, the Miami Hurricanes offense has confidence in traveling to Pittsburgh this week. Pittsburgh is one of the most balanced teams nationally. The Panthers are third nationally averaging 45.3 points per game and 26th allowing 19.6 PPG.

The entire Miami Hurricanes football team will have to raise its level against Pittsburgh. Miami is 40th in scoring averaging 32.1 PPG and is 97th allowing 30.0 PPG. The 25.7 margin of victory for Pittsburgh and 2.1 for Miami are a stark contrast. Miami has started to gain consistency offensively in the last two weeks.

Miami gained 421 yards in a 45-42 loss to North Carolina two weeks ago and 420 in a 31-30 victory over North Carolina State last weekend. The Miami Hurricanes were productive throughout the game against the Wolfpack. Miami combined for 174 yards of offense in the first halves against Virginia and North Carolina.,

The quick start for Miami against North Carolina State was critical after the poor first halves against Virginia and North Carolina. Miami is 103rd nationally averaging 10.0 PPG in the first half against FBS opponents. The Hurricanes are 33rd nationally against FBS opponents averaging 16.0 PPG in the second half.

"“I just went out and ripped the ball with confidence…They’re (Pittsburgh) a really good defense…We have to prepare well and we’ll be ready. I was always preparing like I was the starter…The opportunity came. It’s been good so far. I’m getting better each week…You just gotta get better each week and play with confidence and get that win.”"

Miami quarterback Tyler Van Dyke spoke about the confidence he played with early in the game against North Carolina State versus being tentative to begin the Virginia and North Carolina games. The Hurricanes gained 90 yards in the first quarter against the Wolfpack with Van Dyke passing for 77.

Miami is 74th nationally in total offense against FBS opponents averaging 382.3 yards per game. Pittsburgh is 31st in total defense against FBS opponents allowing 345.2 yards per game. Miami is going to have to be close to the 420-yard mark it exceeded against North Carolina and hit versus North Carolina State.

The Hurricanes have to continue to be the big-play offense it was against North Carolina State. Miami had seven pass plays of more than 20 yards and a 28 yard run from running back Jaylan Knighton. Wide receiver Charleston Rambo and Knighton each had two receptions of more than 20 yards.

Pittsburgh is 32nd nationally allowing 27 plays of 20 or more yards. The Panthers focus on stacking the box against opponents to stop the run, a strong pass-rushing defensive line and cornerbacks that can cover opposing WRs in single coverage. Miami will need big plays to defeat Pittsburgh.