Get to know the Pitt Panthers from the other side

Earlier this week, myself and On3 Pitt reporter Nate Breisinger exchanged some questions/thoughts on each team this weekend.

Here’s his view on Pitt heading into Saturday’s game:

What has kept Pitt from pulling out a few more wins?

“It’s been a culmination of errors that has led to Pitt dropping games against West Virginia and Louisville. In a rivalry game at WVU, Pitt it was clear that the Panthers were not prepared, failing to find the end zone in the first half. The Panthers also took the most penalties – 14 – in a game since 2020. Several red zone trips saw flags push Pitt back and settle for field goals. Still, Pitt was up by 10 points in the fourth quarter, but WVU made excellent adjustments and used a balanced attack against Pitt to tie the game and then used that momentum to seal it in overtime. The Louisville loss saw some of its penalty troubles alleviated, other mistakes came to the forefront. Pitt turned the ball over five times – two on special teams in the first half and three interceptions in the second half as the Panthers were scoreless in the final 30 minutes of play.

“Pitt has also put its defense in a vulnerable position. The defense has been overworked and has been unable to come up with key stops, especially against West Virginia. Time of possession has been slanted in the opposition’s favor with 35:37 compared to Pitt’s 24:23.”

An interesting storyline for this game is the QB matchup — both once a part of that 2023 Alabama recruiting class. How has Eli Holstein transitioned at Pitt? What are some of his strengths and some of the things he has to improve on?

“Holstein is in his second season commanding the Pitt offense and it’s safe to say that he has not lived up to the second-year expectations. He has thrown 11 touchdowns and has spurts of playing really good. He has done a good job at throwing on the run and also stepping up in the pocket.

However, his accuracy has been shaky, missing on several open targets a game. His decision-making has also been questionable, leading to five interceptions and several near picks. He was benched, for the first time in his career, in the fourth quarter of the Louisville game for Cole Gonzales after tossing two interceptions, so there could be a developing quarterback situation come Saturday.”

Who are some of the top playmakers at the skill positions on offense?

“A key to this game will be whether or not star running back Desmond Reid will play. The returning All-Purpose All-American is dealing with an ankle injury and Pitt has not run the ball as much with him out of the lineup. Redshirt freshman Juelz Goff has been the top backup taking a bulk of the snaps without Reid. He’s been solid, but still has quite a ways to go before becoming a high-impact player.

Pitt’s offensive strength comes on the perimeter with its receiving corps that plays with speed Raphael Williams has been excellent and always finds himself open. He leads the team in reception, yards and in touchdowns with four. Louisville transfer Cataurus Hicks has been a great find from the portal. He has unreal ball skills almost as if he plays with Velcro on his hands. He also has solid top-end speed. Kenny Johnson and Deuce Spann are more physical wide receivers.”

What is the strength on defense for this Pitt team, and who has stood out there?

“Pitt’s strength on defense comes from the interior of the defensive line. The Panthers practically have four starters inside that rotate often. Sean FitzSimmons, Francis Brewu, Nick James and Isaiah Neal have put together strong seasons thus far, especially when it comes to stopping the run. The Panthers have held teams to 74 yards on the ground – seventh-best in the country.” 

When it comes down to it, what would be the difference maker for Pitt to come away with a win?

“Two things will be critical for Pitt in this one: Third-down conversions and red zone success. Pitt’s offense has really struggled at converting third downs. It’s been a mix of poor play calling and the inability to execute. In terms of the red zone, Pitt has scored 11 touchdowns on 21 red zone trips. The Panthers are kicking too many field goals.

“If Pitt converts in those areas at a higher clip, it should have a strong chance of winning, even if the Panthers happen to turn the ball over once or twice.”