Pitt's defensive line has played consistently well through four games. But tomorrow, when the Panthers (2-2, 0-1 Big East) play at Virginia, the unit will face what most Pitt coaches believe will be its toughest test to date.

The Cavaliers (3-1, 3-0 ACC) are on a three-game winning streak and a big reason is their talented and veteran offensive line.

The line, which has four returning starters and features five players with significant experience, is big and powerful. It is also is mobile and athletic, which means the Panthers could have their hands full trying to stop Virginia's running game.

And while size usually gives the Panthers trouble, it is the athleticism of the Cavaliers' offensive line that has Pitt's defensive coaches most concerned.

Defensive coordinator Paul Rhoads said the Cavaliers are able to do so many different things when they are run-blocking because their linemen move so well. That is why the Panthers not only will have to play physical football, but also smart football.

"That is a huge offensive line," Rhoads said. "The key to dealing with that offensive line, and really the key to having a chance to be successful against their running game, is how well you can defeat blocks in the open field, especially against 300-pounders that run like skilled athletes.

"They will cut you, they will get on you. If you are going to stop that running game, you will have to get off physical blocks in order to do so."

Two weeks ago, the Panthers played very well against Michigan State's offensive line which, like Virginia's, is big and experienced.

That day, the Panthers allowed the Spartans only 144 yards on 51 carries and played well enough to give the team a chance to win.

According to Pitt players, that game gave the defensive line the confidence it can play well against any offensive line they face this season.

"They are big and they are going to try to run the ball right at us, because that's what they do well," said Pitt defensive tackle Rashaad Duncan. "So far, Michigan State has been the best line we've faced, and this is the same type of situation as Michigan State was -- a nice group of big guys who can move that have played a lot of games with each other.

"But these guys move a lot quicker and can do some different things.

"But I do believe, based on how we've played so far and with the preparation we are getting this week, we'll be able to stand in there."

One advantage for the Pitt defense is it should be somewhat familiar with Virginia's offense, which -- like the Panthers -- operates out of a pro-style system based on a power-running game.

The Cavaliers' attack is led by tailback Cedric Peerman, who averages 120 yards per game and 5.7 yards per carry.

One break the Panthers might get is Virginia's starting left tackle, Eugene Monroe, is listed as questionable for the game with a knee injury he sustained late in the Cavaliers' 28-23 victory Saturday against Georgia Tech.

Pitt defensive end Chris Mc-Killop said the Panthers can't get caught up worrying about which players are injured because he said he's sure the Cavaliers' backup tackle is going to be talented and physical, just like Monroe.

McKillop said the key to the Panthers winning the war in the trenches, at least on the defensive side of the ball, is to outwork Virginia. He believes they can do that.

"Like coach [former defensive line coach and current administrator Bob] Junko always says, 'We just need to keep sawing wood,' " McKillop said. "Just battle every play.

"Our overall theme as a defense this year has been to remain positive all game, regardless of the situation. That's where our focus is, that's what we can control, so that's what we're going to stick to worrying about."

NOTES -- Pitt's captains for the Virginia game are LaRod Stephens-Howling (offense), Eric Thatcher (defense) and Austin Ransom (special teams). "Austin has really done a great job on special teams," coach Dave Wannstedt said, explaining why this former walk-on was named a captain. "As you know, he earned a scholarship this year as a walk-on. Sometimes, some players get complacent, but other people take it to another level and that's what Austin did."