Notre Dame vs. Pittsburgh: Game Preview, Prediction

Matchup: Notre Dame Fighting Irish (20-2) vs. Pittsburgh Panthers (13-8)

Okay, we see you, Notre Dame.

The Fighting Irish are coming off a huge win against the Duke Blue Devils. Yes, the same Duke team led by Jahlil Okafor. In the process, Jerian Grant became even more of a star. Going forward, Grant and Co. should be in the spotlight for the rest of the season.

The Panthers aren’t as fortunate. They have now dropped three straight and need some help if they are going to make the dance. Beating a team like Notre Dame would certainly do wonders towards that cause, but I wouldn’t count on that one.

What to Watch For

How about that Jerian Grant guy we previously mentioned. He dropped 23 points and 12 assists on Duke. To no one’s surprise, he is also leading the team in scoring. He also is in the running for ACC Player of the Year. He is not alone when it comes to scoring, though, as the team is putting up 81.6 PPG.

None of Pittsburgh’s players have as much star power as Grant, but there are a few players who score the ball at a decent rate. It is Michael Young who is leading the team in scoring (13.2 PPG), though.

Prediction

Pittsburgh could really use a win right about now. At this rate, it is not going to make the field of 68. Luckily, there is still plenty of time left for the Panthers to make their case, and they still have to play a bunch of quality opponents.

However, coming off a huge win against Duke, fans can expect Notre Dame to come away with the win in this contest. May I remind you that the Fighting Irish have only lost two games in 2014-15.

No matter who wins, though, expect it to be a great game.

Notre Dame 77, Pittsburgh 70