The Panthers have used a combination of solid play and some fortunate breaks on their way to an unexpected 7-0 start. But they have a bad timing for potential shootout against a surging SMU club that should be prepared for a poised performance after narrowly avoiding an upset at Duke last week.

An unbeaten team this deep into the season getting more than a TD? Sign me up. Both QBs are banged up, but Pitt's Eli Holstein appears to be the healthier. For SMU, Kevin Jennings is expected to start but could give way to a capable backup. While the Panthers have dealt with some scares, Holstein always seems to bail them out. SMU backers point out Pitt having forged a significant turnover advantage that could start to even out. Another way to look at it: The Panthers are ballhawks who protect the ball when it's in their possession.

Both teams have injury issues at quarterback, but it's SMU's entire roster that's looking a little bit banged up heading into one of the biggest ACC games of the year. Pitt has found ways to exceed oddsmakers' expectations all year and in a game that I think will be decided by one possession it's a great spot to take the Panthers with the hook.

With a fairly easy schedule the rest of the way, a big win on Saturday night could propel SMU to an 11-1 season with victories over two ranked teams. Despite losing the turnover battle 6-0 last week, the Mustangs somehow kept their College Football Playoff hopes alive with a 28-27 win at Duke. Now they face a Pittsburgh team who is 0-5 ATS in their last five road games against ranked teams. Style points matter for SMU and they'll make it count on Saturday night. SMU 34, Pittsburgh 14.