In an attempt to cap off a 2024 season that started with loftier goals, Pittsburgh and Toledo square off in the GameAbove Sports Bowl. It will be in Detroit the day after Christmas. Three days after their first defeat against SMU, the Panthers (7-5) were ranked No. 18 in the first 2024 CFP ratings. But a five-game losing streak that lasted the remainder of the regular season began with that 48–25 loss to the Mustangs.

Meanwhile, in November, Pitt was beset with injuries. QB Eli Holstein sustained a head injury in the previous week’s loss to Virginia. And he missed the Nov. 16 game vs Clemson. On Nov. 23, the rookie made a comeback to start against Louisville, but he was injured in the first quarter and did not finish. Due to this, he missed the last game vs Eagles. Both teams now have the opportunity to make history in this bowl game. The competition will, therefore, be fierce. And, an ESPN crew will be present to add to the excitement.

Who’s part of the ESPN crew?

The play-by-play commentator Matt Schumacker, analyst Dustin Fox, and sideline reporter Harry Lyles Jr. will call the Pittsburgh Panthers Vs. Toledo Rockets Bowl game. This trio brings tons of experience in sports broadcasting—journalism and pro athletics backgrounds will make for engaging shows. If you want to know why you should trust us, just look at their experience in broadcasting.

From commentating on the sidelines to participating on social media, Schumacker has covered men’s basketball since September 2015 as a play-by. He has previously worked as a commentator for the Louisville Bats Baseball Team and as an editorial assistant via NFL Network. He has also hosted Bleacher Report shows and worked on the MVC Conference Title with CBS Sports. And currently he serves for ESPN’s college football.

Conversely, after being selected in the 2005 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings, Fox performed as a CB in the NFL prior to becoming a broadcaster. In addition, he was a player for the Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles, which added insightful perspectives to his analysis. Now, Fox is a well-known college football commentator on ESPN platforms. He has contributed to the NFL Radio Network and co-hosted ‘Inside the Cleveland Browns’.

Nevertheless, when combined, they brighten your day. But before you watch the game, quickly consider who has a better probability of winning the bowl game.

Panthers Vs. Toledo Bowl game: Who will win?

The Sports Bowl, held at Ford Field, is where Pittsburgh and Toledo wrap out their seasons. As injuries plagued the roster throughout ACC play, Pitt lost its final 5 games to finish the season. And Toledo was unable to sustain its MAC dominance this year. With both teams not playing at their best, what are our analysts’ expectations for this bowl game?

According to most estimates, Pitts will win; the Panthers should score between 29 and 22. Experts predict that Toledo’s offense, which has struggled all season, might be destroyed by Pitts’ defense, especially its outstanding defensive line. With a money line of -265, the Panthers have a high suggested probability of winning, 72.6%, according to betting stats. In contrast, with a moneyline of +214, the Rockets have a lesser indicated probability of 31.8%.

Now, you will be wrong if you believe Pitts will win the game based on the prediction. This forecast is based on the information that is currently available. Therefore, you must watch the complete Panthers vs. Toledo game to determine the victor of this bowl game.