The set-up: UNC is 4-5 and it comes out of its bye week in need of a victory to keep its bowl aspirations alive. The Panthers became bowl eligible last time out by holding on for a 20-12 win over Georgia Tech last time out and I think a predictable mental letdown is imminent here. Last year the Tar Heels won a 38-35 shootout at home in this game and I expect a similarily hard-fought and ultimately competitive battle here as well. UNC has to be feeling confident as well with QB Sam Howell, who has 26 TD passes and only five INT's. So far UNC is averaging 27.6 PPG and conceding 27.1.

The pick: The Panthers aren't the greatest on offense, but htey make up for it on the defensive side by conceding only 20.1 PPG. I'll point out though that UNC is 5-1 ATS in its last six after allowing 37 points or more in its last game, while Pittsburgh is just 3-4 ATS in its last seven as a home favorite. The conditions are right for a SU upset, but in the end I'll recommend to grab the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on North Carolina.