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Last week the Big East released the conference match-ups and Pitt came out with a pretty even draw. It's still the Big East, so the automatic wins are limited, but it seems that Pitt got a good mix of compelling home games and tough road games.
HOME | AWAY |
Cincinnati | Cincinnati |
Depaul | Depaul |
Marquette | Marquette |
Villanova | Villanova |
Connecticut | Georgetown |
Notre Dame | Louisville |
Seton Hall | Providence |
USF | Rutgers |
Syracuse | St. John's |
Some first impressions of the schedule after the jump.
Without WVU as Pitt's semi-official annual opponent, Pitt will play twice against Marquette, Cincinnati, Villanova and Depaul. Not really a murderer's row there, but Cincinnati could be a top-30 type of team.
Pitt gets a nice slate of home games with Notre Dame, Syracuse and UConn all coming to the Pete. Without a marquee non-conference game, Pitt desperately needed quality home conference games and the Big East delivers. Syracuse and Notre Dame should both be ranked, if not top-15 caliber teams this season. UConn, well, will be UConn and Pitt will have one final shot to avenge the 2011 Big East Tournament loss.
The road slate will provide a challenge as well. Louisville is a lock to be a preseason top-5 team and the Cardinals enjoy a fantastic home court advantage at the stupidly names Yum! Center. Going to D.C. to play Georgetown is always tough and Mike Rice may finally have Rutgers on the upswing.
Like every season in the Big East, Pitt will have its work cut out. But If Steven Adams and Trey Zeigler can contribute as many expect, Pitt should be in the mix for the Big East crown one last time.
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