Miami-Pittsburgh predictions: Will UM keep slim playoff hopes alive?

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

No. 12 Miami (9-2) at No. 22 Pittsburgh (8-3), Saturday, Noon, ABC

Latest line: Miami is favored by 6 1/2 points

Adam Lichtenstein, Miami Hurricanes Writer: Miami 35, Pittsburgh 28

These aren’t your usual Pitt Panthers. Usually, coach Pat Narduzzi’s teams play tough, grinding defense, and the offense is the weaker part of the team. Not this year. Since freshman quarterback Mason Heintschel took over for Eli Holstein earlier this season, the Panthers’ offense has been excellent. Now it ranks 12th in the nation. Miami’s defense has been stellar all season, too. The battle between UM’s defense and Pitt’s offense will likely decide this game, which could come down to the wire.

Dave Hyde, Sun Sentinel Sports Columnist: Miami 30, Pittsburgh 21

The final game and final statement about Miami’s playoff chances brings a challenge. In the cold at Pitt isn’t a given. But the Hurricanes have too much to lose by losing. A loss would end all playoff hopes. A win would keep them in the thick of the postseason discussion, while the plethora of playoff possibilities play out over the next two weeks. However, Miami, which allowed 194 rushing yards against Virginia Tech last week, will have its hands full against Pitt, which rushed for more than 200 yards in a win over Georgia Tech last week.

Keven Lerner, Assistant Sports Editor: Miami 30, Pittsburgh 24

With so much on the line for No. 12 Miami, No. 22 Pittbsurgh will hard-pressed to pull off the upset. But Pitt also is fighting for a spot in the ACC championship game, and will certainly play inspired football despite being 6 1/2-point underdogs. Like the Hurricanes, the Panthers are on the outside looking in at the ACC title game as No. 18 Virginia and No. 21 SMU have the edge. Expect a close game, but UM should pull out a victory against a solid Pitt team that routed Georgia Tech, 42-28, on the road last week.

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos