The Backyard Brawl: Pitt at West Virginia

It has become a Thanksgiving tradition and a lot is on the line besides bragging rights. West Virginia is just two wins away from representing the Big East in the Bowl Championship Series. Pittsburgh is on the brink of being eliminated from a bowl eligibility after a much anticipated season that has been anything short of a disappointment.

The Mountaineers have exceeded all preseason expectations and are a -13 point home favorite. The Panthers can turn around their whole season with an upset win over their rival and subsequently earn a bowl bid. A 7-5 season and bowl win is a lot better than 5-6 and home for the Holidays. The extra practice time would be blessing for team that has fallen flat under new head coach Dave Wannestedt.

West Virginia is not just wining against a easy slate, they are very good, and could surprise the SEC champ in the Sugar Bowl. This a first of a tough two game slate for WV, a trip to South Florida awaits them next week. The Mountaineers beat the Panthers on their way to a Sugar Bowl berth. WV 34, Pitt 26.