Notre Dame vs. Pittsburgh: 5 Halftime Adjustments the Panthers Must Make

1. Capitalize on the Big Play!

The defense has been playing very well, getting a turnover deep in Notre Dame territory and holding the passing game to just about nothing. But, the Irish were able to bust out a big touchdown run; where is Pitt’s big offensive play? Tito Sunseri has had a couple chances to hit a receiver on a big pass play and has just barely missed. Take a couple shots and get a receiver open on a play that allows him some room to move. They still have Devin Street in uniform, right?

2. Stop Getting Pushed Around

The offensive line of Notre Dame is opening huge holes for their running game. It was only a matter of time until they busted out a big run. The Pitt front seven have made good plays to get to the runners early, have had some incredible open-field tackles, but those gaping holes are going to cause problems if they aren’t filled fast.

3. That Being Said...blitz Rees More

Tommy Rees has looked extremely skittish when pressured. He’s accounted for more than half of his team’s turnovers this season, and already lost a fumble once today. He threw two balls that were almost intercepted when he was getting pressured, and if he doesn’t make a decision like that, he seems to just look for Michael Floyd, who has been double-covered all day. Force more turnovers that could change the pace of the game.

4. Keep an Eye on the Other Receivers

Coverage on Floyd has been very good so far. But Notre Dame has other weapons, and it’s only a matter of time until Brian Kelly realizes the go-to-Floyd-at-all-costs thing isn’t working. Once that happens, the Pitt secondary could find itself in a vulnerable position when their single coverage gets attacked. I’m not saying you have to double everyone, which would be impossible. Just be ready for it and don’t put too soft of coverage on anyone.

5. Take Advantage of Gifts

Both times the offense has received good field position, they settled for field goals. When you get the ball in such good spots, you must put the ball in the end zone! 1st-and goal-on the 10-yard line should turn into a lot better than two ineffective runs and a screen pass. Go for the end zone and run an option with the big Sunseri. Or at least draw up a play that gets a receiver some room near the goal line where he can make a play. Notre Dame is not a team you can squander such good field position against. And if Rees is going to continue to turn the ball over, make them pay like after the interception with the long run on first down.