Reid's Game-Changing Performance:
In an electrifying showdown on Saturday, Desmond Reid took charge for the Pitt Panthers, running for 120 yards and delivering two key touchdowns to edge out California in a tense 17-15 victory. The win propelled No. 22 Pitt to a 6-0 record, marking the first time the Panthers have achieved this since 1982.
The Defense Steps Up as Pitt’s Offense Falters
While Reid's explosive play was pivotal, it was Pitt's defense that truly carried the day. The Panthers' defense, racking up six sacks, was an unmovable force, particularly as their revamped offense struggled to find its groove. On a day when Pitt managed only 277 total yards, far below their season average of 527, the defense held strong. After a sluggish second half, where the offense nearly stalled, it was the defense that ensured the victory by shutting down Cal’s late-game surge.
Cal's Last-Minute Opportunities Slip Away
Cal (3-3, 0-3 ACC) had chances to turn the tide, but they just couldn’t capitalize when it mattered most. With just under two minutes left, Cal’s kicker, Ryan Coe, attempted a go-ahead 40-yard field goal that went wide right, missing the mark and leaving Cal trailing by two. A final attempt by Cal with 44 seconds left on the clock fizzled out as the Bears failed to convert a first down. Pitt's defense stood firm, securing bowl eligibility after last year’s disappointing 3-9 season, which led head coach Pat Narduzzi to make some serious changes to the offensive staff.
Offensive Overhaul Under Kade Bell
The addition of offensive coordinator Kade Bell, who brought with him an up-tempo approach from Western Carolina, has infused some fresh energy into Pitt’s offense. While the offense struggled on Saturday, Bell's impact has been felt throughout the season, pushing Pitt into a more modern, fast-paced style. But in this particular game, it wasn’t the offensive fireworks people were expecting. Instead, it was gritty decision-making and a defense-first mentality that kept Pitt in the game.
Eli Holstein Hits First Major Roadblock
Redshirt freshman quarterback Eli Holstein, a transfer from Alabama, had his first rough outing since joining Pitt. After a string of strong performances, Holstein struggled against Cal, completing just 14 of 28 passes for 133 yards and throwing two interceptions deep in Cal territory. Both interceptions came at critical moments in the third quarter when Pitt had a chance to extend their lead. Yet, despite his struggles, the Panthers found a way to win, thanks in large part to Reid's playmaking and a few gutsy calls early in the game.
Aggressive Play-Calling Pays Off for Pitt
One of those gutsy decisions came early in the first quarter when Pitt, facing a fourth-and-1 from their own 28-yard line, decided to go for it. Initially, it looked like Holstein was just trying to draw Cal offside, but then the play shifted, and Reid took the handoff, breaking free for an incredible 72-yard touchdown run. This unexpected move set the tone for the Panthers, proving that they weren’t afraid to take risks.
Later, in the same quarter, Pitt took another gamble by attempting a 58-yard field goal, an ambitious move in college football. But senior kicker Ben Sauls delivered, nailing the longest field goal ever made by a college player at Acrisure Stadium. This moment was a key turning point, giving Pitt momentum and a cushion on the scoreboard.
Cal's Mendoza Shines, But Bears Falter in the Clutch
For Cal, quarterback Fernando Mendoza had an impressive showing, throwing for 272 yards and a touchdown. His top target, tight end Jack Endries, had a standout game, catching eight passes for 119 yards, including a 19-yard touchdown pass from his roommate Mendoza with just over 10 minutes left in the game. However, after scoring that crucial touchdown, Cal failed to convert the two-point conversion that would have tied the game at 17, leaving the Bears chasing a slim deficit for the remainder of the contest.
Penalties Prove Costly for Cal
Unfortunately for Cal, mistakes kept piling up, especially in the form of penalties. The Bears were flagged 12 times for a total of 110 yards, with a whopping 90 of those yards coming in the first half. These costly errors stalled Cal’s momentum and prevented them from capitalizing on several opportunities. It’s hard to win a close game when you're repeatedly shooting yourself in the foot, and Cal’s inability to clean up the penalties certainly played a part in their downfall.
Pitt’s Defense Returns to Form
Head coach Pat Narduzzi had been vocal about his team's lack of sacks coming into the game, a rarity for the Panthers under his 10-year tenure. The defense heard the call and responded in a big way. In the second half, they reverted to their dominant ways, continuously putting pressure on Mendoza and forcing Cal into difficult situations. This resurgence of Pitt's defensive prowess was crucial as their offense sputtered for much of the second half.
Poll Implications
Pitt’s performance, while not the most aesthetically pleasing, will likely keep them hovering around the 20th spot in the national rankings when the polls are released on Sunday. Despite the offensive struggles, their undefeated record and gritty victory should keep them in good standing.
What’s Next for Both Teams
Looking ahead, Cal will face North Carolina State next Saturday, where they’ll hope to snap their three-game losing streak in the ACC. For Pitt, the road to maintaining their undefeated season won’t get any easier, but they’ve proven they can grind out tough wins, even when their offense isn’t clicking on all cylinders.
Takeaways from the Game
- Desmond Reid Shines: Reid’s 120 rushing yards and two touchdowns were the highlights for Pitt, providing the spark they needed when their offense stalled.
- Pitt's Defense Comes Up Big: With six sacks and critical stops late in the game, the defense showed why they’re one of the best units in the ACC.
- Holstein's Growing Pains: The redshirt freshman had his toughest game yet, but he’ll grow from the experience.
- Penalties Kill Cal: Twelve penalties for 110 yards ultimately doomed the Bears, who missed a few crucial opportunities to pull ahead.
- Sauls Makes History: Ben Sauls’ 58-yard field goal was not just a crucial moment in the game but a record-setting one at Acrisure Stadium.
The game was a testament to Pitt’s resilience, showing that even when things don’t go according to plan, they have the talent and toughness to find a way to win.
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