Don’t ask me why, but that became a popular issue for the media coverage on both sides. A good amount is focused on the Pitt rushing attack.

Then there is the whole fact that Pitt’s entire backfield is new, but thriving. Oddly, though, little mention of the O-line in that.

There’s an AP article talking about Pitt’s offense being — you know — diverse, and a challenge for UConn.

Edsall ran down a list of about a dozen different personnel groups the Panthers use, some with tight ends Dorin Dickerson and Nate Byham switching in and out and others with them playing at the same time. He also said that wasn’t all the Panthers (4-1, 1-0 Big East) are doing now that many in Wannstedt’s first few recruiting classes are juniors and seniors.

“They’re a very multiple team and we’re going to have to be multiple with what we want to do,” Edsall said.

Stull is the primary reason for the multiple personality Pitt’s offense is taking on. Much improved from a year ago, Stull has thrown 11 touchdown passes and only one interception, with Dickerson (6 TD catches) and Jonathan Baldwin (nearly 20 yards per catch average) having big seasons. Stull has already thrown for two more touchdowns than he did last season.

“We want to maximize our possessions on every series,” offensive coordinator Frank Cignetti said. “You’re always looking for explosive plays from every area.”

Brian Bennett at ESPN.com sees Johnathan Baldwin being a major factor in the game tomorrow.

The difference, then, may come down to whether Pitt can take advantage of its playmakers in the passing game. As good as UConn’s defense has been, the Huskies have not seen a fleet of receivers yet quite like Pittsburgh’s. And they have definitely not seen a receiver as talented as Baldwin since last year’s season finale. Baldwin had just one catch in that game, a Pitt victory at Rentschler Field.

But he’s more dangerous this year as a sophomore. And that might tilt Saturday’s game in the Panthers’ favor.

The UConn beat writers sees a major key for the UConn defense will be getting off the field on 3d down (gee, that seems like an oddly familiar thing) and preventing the big play.

Oh, and of course, UConn is playing to get some respect.