We’ve been waiting for this for months. Ever since the announcement some 6 months prior. Arguably that was the moment when it was truly understood that Pitt was in the ACC. It was really happening. It wasn’t being done grudgingly. Pitt was bring truly welcomed to the ACC and offered a huge opportunity. Not only a marquee conference home game against the conference’s best program over the past 20 years. Pitt was given the ACC’s spotlight Labor Day opening conference game on ESPN. The only game on TV. No regional diversity. No competition with Breaking Bad. Nothing else. Just FSU-Pitt.

Pitt’s had the spotlight moments before. Even in the recent years of frustration. And yes, spit the bit. Badly. At the same time, Pitt has had the moments. Especially when most people don’t seem to think Pitt can hang with the opponent.

“Virginia Tech, no one gave us a chance,” Street said. “Notre Dame, even though we didn’t come out on top, we proved we can keep up with those teams. That’s what we’re doing now.”

I’m not going to pretend that I think Pitt will win. Florida State has been a more stable program. They have a lot of talent all over the field. They have a good coach in Jimbo Fisher and the rest of that coaching staff. They are ranked in the top-ten for a reason.

That said, I think Pitt can win. I think Pitt is capable of meeting this moment and not flinching.

Let’s find out.

Even Coach Paul Chryst can’t downplay this one.

“There is so much real motivation for every guy on this team to play well,” Chryst said. “There’s a lot of different good reasons guys play the game. That’s great, and that’s what makes this sport good.”

I, for one, am disappointed he said “good” and not “neat.”

The anticipation, the excitement. Everyone is eager.

“I don’t remember a game to open the season that has been this anticipated,” athletic director Steve Pederson said.

Well, he wasn’t here at the time, but I do recall a certain kickoff in 2005 that was filled with anticipation. But, um, yeah. Let’s not dwell on that one.

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