Pittsburgh had the edge at many positions going into last season's game with Penn State. This time around? Different story. Let's get to the matchups.

PENN STATE

QUARTERBACKS

Trace McSorley (9) got off to a solid start in the Akron opener, throwing for two touchdowns and running for another. He did have a costly interception late in last year's Pittsburgh game but he is a much-improved player. Will we see at two-QB set with McSorley and Tommy Stevens (2).

WIDE RECEIVERS

Juwan Johnson (84) looked comfortable in the spotlight last week. The Lions' big receiver can make plays across the middle or going deep. Have a feeling DaeSean Hamilton (5) is sitting on a big game. But what about Saeed Blacknall (13)?

DEFENSIVE LINE

Penn State's deepest position must be ready for the challenge of the Pittsburgh running game. The Lions are strong at the tackle spots with Parker Cothren (41) and Curtis Cothran (52), and Tyrell Chavis (56). Ryan Buchholz (97) had strong game coming off the bench with Shareef Miller (48) ailing.

PITTSBURGH

QUARTERBACK

Max Browne (4), the transfer from USC, will have to deal with the Penn State defense and the Beaver Stadium crowd. Browne threw for 140 yards and a touchdown against Youngstown State.

OFFENSIVE LINE

Pittsburgh's offensive line paved the way for a huge Panthers rushing day vs. Penn State last season, but a couple of key Pitt linemen have moved on. The best of this Panthers' group might be LT Brian O'Neill (70)?

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Panthers blocked a punt against Youngstown State and the Lions will be mindful of one of the top return men in the country -- Quadree Henderson (10). Henderson, also a starting wideout, is a threat as a receiver, runner and return man. Henderson had a long kickoff return in the second half of last season's Penn State game.

ADVANTAGES

QUARTERBACK: Penn State

RUNNING BACKS: Penn State

RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS: Penn State

OFFENSIVE LINE: Even

DEFENSIVE LINE: Penn State

LINEBACKERS: Even

SECONDARY: Penn State

SPECIAL TEAMS: Even

COACHING: Even