Doctor Robert: Pitt has several injury questions heading into the week

The season hasn't yet begun but Pitt sort of has the look of a team that's banged up in the middle of the season. The Panthers have some injury concerns heading into the season opener against Youngstown State and we may not know the status until Saturday.

That can only mean one thing - someone better get Doctor Robert on the horn. NOW.

The big injury issues are on the offensive line. Center Artie Rowell, who missed all of last season with an ACL injury, hasn't been 100%. Head coach Pat Narduzzi has been pretty tight-lipped about the injuries, but said he believes Rowell will play. However, that's hardly a given considering how much time in camp he's missed.

Also on the line, it sounds as if tackle Adam Bisnowaty could be out with an injury. FWIW, offensive line coach Jim Chaney is optimistic everyone will be able to play but we likely won't get confirmation of that until game day. Bookser confirmed that he and Brian O'Neill are expected to start at tackle, but Bisnowaty may still play.

Defensively, Pitt could also be missing a big part of their line with Darryl Render potentially out. As is the case with the offensive line injuries, not much is known about Render's availability. But he was left off the two deep rotation this week, meaning there's a decent chance he doesn't play. But Narduzzi also said this week that Render had a full weightlifting session in on Sunday and will suit up, so he's not been ruled out by any means.

Lots of questions as Pitt begins its season.

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