Pitt poised to win first ACC Championship
By Tyler Moran, Staff Writer
November 13, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt was picked to finish fifth in the ACC Coastal Division preseason polls. Now, they are at the top of the ACC Coastal and are only one win away from making history and becoming the first team in program history to make it to the ACC Championships.
GALLERY: Pitt Panthers defeat Virginia Tech Hokies, 52-22
By TPN Staff
November 10, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Visual
Pitt Panthers defeat Virginia Tech Hokies, 52-22, during their last home game of the season Nov. 10.
Panthers run wild on Hokies, win 52-22 in Coastal clash
By Sami Abu-Obaid, Staff Writer
November 10, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt made history in its final home game of the season, racking up the most offensive yards, the longest play and the first time going undefeated in the ACC at home in program history.
Football Prediction: Pitt will come out on top 34-26
By Michael Nitti, Staff Writer
November 9, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt has been dominate at home this season, averaging 40.7 points and 295.7 yards per game. The only question is, will the Panthers be able to continue that streak when it matters most? Read here to see what you can expect from the Panthers when they face Virginia Tech this Saturday.
Takeaways: Pitt running into ACC Championship Contention
By Michael Nitti, Staff Writer
November 6, 2018
Pitt had one of its performances of the year on both sides of the ball and on the road last Friday. The Panthers emerging defense held a hot Virginia offense to 44 rushing yards and earned its first road win of the season.
Panthers win 23-13, leapfrog Va. in ACC Coastal
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
November 3, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
The sloppy field conditions were perfectly suited for the Panthers, who pounded the ball on the ground and stifled Virginia’s offense en route to a 23-13 victory.
Can Pitt emerge from the ACC’s Coastal quagmire?
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
October 30, 2018
Despite losing a crucial conference game to lowly one-win North Carolina, Pitt has been given new life thanks to the ACC becoming the football embodiment of Murphy’s law.
Takeaways: Pitt remains consistently inconsistent
By Nick Carlisano, Staff Writer
October 29, 2018
Pitt beat Duke 54-45 last Saturday to keep their hopes of an ACC Costal Division Championship alive. V'Lique Carter was one bright spot in a game that was otherwise once again defined by an inconsistent defense and quarterback.
Photos: Pitt football 54-45 victory over Duke
October 27, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Visual
With the game tied at 45 and no timeouts remaining, the Panthers needed sophomore quarterback Kenny Pickett to lead them downfield with just over a minute left to play. Pickett had struggled up to that point, completing just four of 13 passes for 78 yards and a touchdown. But he came up clutch when...
Pitt rushes for 484 yards, beats Duke 54-45 on final drive
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
October 27, 2018
Filed under 3. Breaking, Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt rushed for 484 yards as a team — the second-most in program history — in a 54-45 last-minute win over the Duke Blue Devils.
Waiver wire weekly: Jesse James to bring the game
By Adin Link, Staff Writer
October 23, 2018
With several NFL team on their bye weeks, it’s the best time to find players that may have not yet had the chance to shine. From young quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield to experienced players like Geronimo Allison, here’s a list of some of your best options for your fantasy football team.
Prediction: Pitt football to right the ship against Duke
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
October 21, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt football is a tough team to predict, but both recent and historical evidence points to a Panther victory over Duke this Saturday.
Takeaways from Pitt’s near upset of Notre Dame
By Nick Carlisano, Staff Writer
October 15, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
In a close game, Pitt pulled off another near upset against the Fighting Irish. Though there was struggles in both the offense and the defense, three key takeaways stuck out. From Kessman's kicks to Pickett's passes, there are aspects of both defense and offense that can be improved upon.
Notre Dame fends off upset, tops Pitt 19-14
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
October 13, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
The Fighting Irish fought their way back against Pitt, taking their first lead with 5:43 left in the game. That would prove to be the final score.
Panthers to bring the fight to Fighting Irish
By Nick Carlisano, Staff Writer
October 11, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
After a successful game that saw many great things from both offense and defense, the Panthers seem to have had a huge confidence boost. But, the Panthers must prepare for a tough game against the Fighting Irish that requires the offensive line to capitalize.
Weekly Pick ‘Em: TPN sports staff locks in ACC game predictions
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
October 11, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
In the first installment of the Pitt News sports weekly pick ‘em competition, 10 of TPN’s most avid football fans put lock in their predictions for upcoming ACC games. For each upcoming game, the staff records their best guess of the outcome of the games.
Pitt football loses Wirginis, Sears on same day
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
October 10, 2018
The Panthers lost two players — redshirt senior middle linebacker Quintin Wirginis and sophomore tight end Tyler Sear — due to an injury and a leave of absence, respectively.
Waiver Wire Weekly: Clement, Coutee are top options
By Adin Link, Staff Writer
October 8, 2018
It's officially Week 6 of the NFL season, and for avid fantasy football fans, it means it is almost time to lock in those picks. From quarterbacks to wide receivers to running backs, it seems the best picks this week are Corey Clement of the Eagles and Keke Coutee of the Texans.
Three takeaways from Pitt’s OT homecoming win
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
October 7, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
Now halfway through the season, it’s becoming clearer what we can expect to see from Pitt on a weekly basis. Here’s what Saturday revealed about the team:
No ex’Cuse: Panthers beat Syracuse 44-37 after weather delay, overtime
By Nick Carlisano, Staff Writer
October 6, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
The senior running back tandem of Qadree Ollison and Darrin Hall carried Pitt to an overtime victory, rushing for a combined 299 yards and three touchdowns.
What are the odds: Orange you glad you didn’t bet on Pitt?
By Colin Martin, Staff Writer
October 5, 2018
After a rough week for Colin's bets last week, he looks at ways to make a comeback. From choosing Syracuse over Pitt to taking the Vikings over the Eagles in the NFL, there's many things to consider this week. Colin looks at several ACC games and offers his best insight on who to put the money on.
Touching me, touching you: The story behind ‘Sweet Caroline’ at Pitt
By Tessa Sayers, Staff Writer
October 3, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Sports Features, Top Stories
Just like any great idea Pitt students have, the school’s most beloved tradition of singing “Sweet Caroline” was born at Hemingway’s Cafe, in 2008.
Prediction: Orange to squeeze out victory over Panthers
By Nick Carlisano, Staff Writer
October 3, 2018
Syracuse looks to bounce back from a narrow loss against No. 4 Clemson, while the Panthers are reeling from a blowout loss to No. 12 UCF.
Column: Le’Veon Bell due to return Week 7
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
October 1, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
After a difficult week for football in Pittsburgh, fans can look towards some good news. It seems Steelers' running back Le'Veon Bell is expected to return to the game in Week 7. Bell's return will help the Steelers make a major comeback after a few hard weeks on both defense and offense.
Waiver Wire Weekly: Add Joe Flacco before Ohio
By Adin Link, Staff Writer
October 1, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
In Week 5 of Waiver Wire Weekly, writer Adin Link looks at some crucial players that are essential for a successful week in fantasy football. With players coming back from injuries and others beginning as rookies, the stakes are high for the game.
Three takeaways from Pitt’s 45-14 loss to UCF
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 30, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
The Panthers produced their worst game of the season Saturday against the University of Central Florida, allowing a season-high 568 yards and gaining a season-low 272 yards.
UCF wins 17th straight game, pummels Pitt 45-14
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 29, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
The Panthers looked listless on both sides of the ball, producing a season-low 272 yards of total offense and allowing a season-high 568 yards on defense
Week 5 ACC Power Rankings
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 27, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
The highest rankings in the ACC are still up for grabs as of now. With Clemson seemingly dominating once again, there may be other unexpected teams to look out for. Here's a glance at the current power struggle within the conference.
Panthers look to snap UCF’s 16-game win streak
By Nick Carlisano, Staff Writer
September 27, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
After Pitt's lost to UNC last week, the team has a lot to focus on. In order to keep up with the University of Central Florida on Saturday, Pitt will really have to work on their offense. Unfortunately, it looks like this week's game will end in a lost to UCF.
What are the odds: Analyzing this week’s AFC North battle
By Colin Martin, Staff Writer
September 27, 2018
After a successful week last week, writer Colin Martin looks at how to keep up his winning streak. With games from Pitt, Penn State and Notre Dame, this week's What Are the Odds even includes an NFL game.
Former Pitt lineman Alex Officer diagnosed with bone cancer
By Griffin Floyd, Staff Writer
September 25, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Alex Officer, a former standout on Pitt’s offensive line, announced last week that he was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.
Waiver Wire Weekly: Keenum to regain momentum
By Adin Link, Staff Writer
September 24, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
In this week's Waiver Wire Weekly, blogger Adin Link looks at the best outcomes from last week, and makes predictions on who to look out for this up coming week. Though not doing very well this past week, Adin encourages fans to look for Case Keenum to make a comeback.
Three takeaways from Pitt’s ugly UNC loss
By Michael Nitti, Staff Writer
September 23, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
The Panthers once again disappeared in the second half against UNC, continuing a disappointing season-long trend.
Panthers falter in second half, lose sixth straight ACC game to UNC
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 22, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
The Panthers faded after leading 28-21 at halftime, getting outscored 17-7 and outgained by 138 yards in the second half.
Halftime recap: Pitt versus UNC
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 22, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
A victory over UNC would be Pitt’s first since moving to the ACC, with the team having lost all five previous meetings.
Panthers ride key conference win into battle with Tar Heels
By Nick Carlisano, Staff Writer
September 21, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
After a 34-31 loss to UNC last season, Pitt will look to make a comeback this weekend. With sophomore quarterback Kenny Pickett at the head of the offensive line, Pitt's options are wide open. And, continue their good work, the Panther defensive will continue to buckle down.
Waiver Wire Weekly: Fitzmagic casts spell in time for Week 3
By Adin Link, Staff Writer
September 17, 2018
Filed under Blogs, Football, Sports
After last week's results in fantasy football, the Pitt News has put together a new list of targets to watch out for during this week. In a short roundup, we offer suggestions of the top picks of quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers and tight ends.
Three takeaways from Pitt’s first ACC win
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 16, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
Accounting for all the highs and lows, here are some of the foremost takeaways from Pitt’s ACC-opening win against Georgia Tech.
Photos: Pitt Football vs. Georgia Tech
By Sarah Cutshall and Thomas Yang
September 15, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Visual
On a sunny Saturday afternoon, Pitt fans witnessed a complete turn-around of Panther football. Exhibiting a major improvement from last week’s game against Penn State, the Panthers showed promise both offensively and defensively in a home game against Georgia Tech — maintaining a consistent lead througho...
Panthers pounce on Georgia Tech, 24-19, in ACC opener
By Sami Abu-Obaid, For the Pitt News
September 15, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
In the third game of the season, Pitt made a major comeback after their lost against Penn State. Showing improvement in all areas, the Panthers started the game with a lead and maintained that lead throughout the rest of the game. The final score was 24-19, a win for Pitt.
Prediction: Panthers to make comeback against Georgia Tech
By Nick Carlisano, Staff Writer
September 13, 2018
This Saturday, Pitt will play Georgia Tech at Heinz Field. Both teams currently have records of 1-1, so they will both put up a fight to make comebacks and improve their starting records. If Pitt improves both offense and defense, they should have no problem beating out the Yellow Jackets.
Forbes Field phenomenon: Remembering the last flagless football game
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 11, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
More than 70 years have gone by since the Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Philadelphia Eagles 7-3 in the NFL's last game without penalties.
Op-ed: ’87 alumnus, former TPN editor says Pitt football is here to stay
By James S. Urban
September 11, 2018
Filed under Football, Letters to the Editor, Opinions, Sports, Sports Columns
In a rebuttal to former TPN editor and New York Times writer Murray Chass' op-ed, Pitt alumnus and former TPN editor says Pitt football is just a small, but important, part of the school's success.
Takeaways from Pitt’s blowout loss in Keystone Clash
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 9, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
The Pitt football team put forth a pitiful effort in Saturday night’s 51-6 blowout loss to in-state rival Penn State — here are some of the biggest takeaways from that game.
Penalties, special teams hurt Pitt in 51-6 blowout loss to Penn State
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 8, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
On a night which included constant rain, chilly temperatures and a persistent wind, the Pitt football team put up a performance to match with the miserable weather.
Halftime: Penn State leads Pitt 14-6
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 8, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports, Uncategorized
Follow the game live on Twitter here. Penn State wasted no time to show its offensive prowess in the 99th edition of Pitt vs. Penn State Saturday night, with senior quarterback Trace McSorley finding junior tight end Jonathan Holland for a 22-yard gain on the Nittany Lions second play. Just t...
In Pa. football fandom, know where to draw the line
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 6, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
In recent years, the Pitt-Penn State rivalry has devolved from a lively competitive spirit to pettiness, irrationality and antagonism on both sides.
Prediction: Pitt to edge out Penn State in home thriller
By Nick Carlisano, Staff Writer
September 5, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
In the penultimate matchup of this renewed four-game football series, both offenses will display fireworks with Pitt ultimately edging out its in-state foe.
Keystone contest: Pitt and Penn State’s football rivalry through the years
By Ben Zimmer, Staff Writer
September 4, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
In honor of Saturday’s upcoming game, here’s a look at some of the most pivotal points of the Pitt - Penn State rivalry since its inception in 1893.
Maurice Ffrench earns ACC Specialist of the Week honors
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 4, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
Ffrench's 91-yard kickoff return touchdown made him the only ACC player to accomplish that feat in week one.
Watson’s west coast approach works for the Panthers
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 4, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Sports Columns, Top Stories
The real MVP of Saturday's game was offensive coordinator Shawn Watson, who brought balance and consistency to the Pitt offense.
University announces tailgating limitations for Pitt-PSU game
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 3, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
The University announced Sunday that parking options will be restricted ahead of the Pitt-Penn State game to accommodate the traffic influx.
Panthers display dominance versus Great Danes, cruise to 33-7 win in home opener
By Trent Leonard, Sports Editor
September 1, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, 3. Breaking, Football, Sports
The Panthers scored all the points they would need in the first half, taking a commanding 33-7 lead thanks to three total touchdowns from sophomore quarterback Kenny Pickett.
Prediction: Panthers to muzzle Great Danes in season opener
By Dominic Campbell, Staff Writer
August 29, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
The Pitt football season kicks off this Saturday afternoon at Heinz Field as the Panthers face off against the Albany Great Danes.
ACC Football Predictions: Clemson dominant once again, while Panthers can contend in Coastal
By Cale Berger, Staff Writer
August 28, 2018
Filed under 2. Featured, Football, Sports
You've heard a lot about Pitt football — now find out what the Panthers' ACC competition looks like.
Experienced roster bodes well for Pitt football
By Trent Leonard, Senior Staff Writer
August 20, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Welcome Back 2018
Despite an unsuccessful season last year, the Panthers are ready to turn things around with an experienced group of returning players, including 18 seniors.
Tight end Charles Reeves dismissed
By Joanna Li, Senior Staff Writer
July 13, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Reeves was dismissed without specific reason from the University, which cited "disciplinary actions."
Pitt Football gains 11 recruits
By Joanna Li | Senior Staff Writer
June 20, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Entering June with zero commitments from the 2019 recruiting class, Pitt’s football team found itself stuck with a late start to its recruiting trail. But despite the slow start, the pace suddenly changed as the the count rocketed to 11 commits in just one weekend, with nine of those players verbally ...
Panther pride: O’Neill, Whitehead and Maddox’s journeys to the NFL
By Trent Leonard | Senior Staff Writer
May 30, 2018
Pitt’s 2018 NFL Draft selections — offensive lineman Brian O’Neill, safety Jordan Whitehead and cornerback Avonte Maddox — all share common skills that made them appealing to professional teams — positional diversity and exceptional speed. Had these athletes played for different college teams, they may ...
7 Pitt players find NFL homes in free agent deals
By Hannah Schneider, Joanna Li, and Trent Leonard
April 29, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Uncategorized
Only three Panthers were selected in this year’s NFL draft, starting in round 2 with Brian O’Neill. After the Vikings picked O'Neill, Tampa Bay chose Jordan Whitehead in the fourth round. The Philadelphia Eagles then chose Avonte Maddox with the 125th overall pick. The seven Pitt players in the dr...
Philadelphia Eagles snag Avonte Maddox in 4th round of NFL Draft
By Trent Leonard | Senior Staff Writer
April 28, 2018
Just eight spots after fellow Pitt defensive back Jordan Whitehead was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Avonte Maddox joined the NFL ranks when the Philadelphia Eagles snagged him in the fourth round with the 125th overall pick. As a Panther, Maddox was a consistent presence in the defensiv...
Tampa Bay selects Jordan Whitehead with the 117th overall pick in the NFL Draft
By Trent Leonard | Senior Staff Writer
April 28, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt football had its second player taken off the board— after offensive lineman Brian O’Neill— when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected safety Jordan Whitehead in the fourth round with the 117th overall pick in the NFL Draft. Despite dealing with two shortened seasons after an impressive first year, Whi...
Minnesota Vikings pick Brian O’Neill 62nd overall in NFL Draft
By Trent Leonard | Senior Staff Writer
April 27, 2018
It took nearly two rounds, but the Pitt football team finally saw some recognition in the NFL Draft Friday night when the Minnesota Vikings selected offensive lineman Brian O’Neill with the 62nd overall pick. This is the culmination of a successful three-year career with the Panthers for O’Neill, whe...
Spring Game analysis: Pitt defense shined while offense struggled
By Cale Berger | Staff Writer
April 15, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt’s annual Blue and Gold Spring Game may be the first chance of the year for Pitt students, alumni and fans to tailgate and bring their favorite jerseys out of retirement, but it is also an opportunity to get a small taste of what the upcoming season will bring on the field. This year was no ...
Gallery: Spring Blue and Gold game
By Thomas Yang | Visual Editor
April 15, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Visual
The Panthers split their football team into Blue and Gold sides Saturday afternoon for their annual Spring Game, a contest in which neither offense looked exceptional. It proved fitting that a defensive touchdown — junior defensive back Dane Jackson’s 60-yard interception-turned-touchdown — handed...
Blue beats Gold, 10-3, in Spring Game defensive battle
By Trent Leonard and Joanna Li | TPN Staff
April 14, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
The Panthers split their football team into Blue and Gold teams Saturday afternoon for their annual Spring Game, a contest in which neither offense looked exceptional. It proved fitting that a defensive touchdown — redshirt junior defensive back Dane Jackson’s 60-yard interception-turned-touchdown ...
Pitt looks overseas for latest lineman
By Alex Lehmbeck | Staff Writer
March 26, 2018
Although a growing demographic, international college football players are hard to find. According to The Growth of a Game, a Belgian-based company connecting football advocates across Europe, only two active Division I college football players were born in Italy as of 2015. Incoming Pitt commit Haba...
Panthers put on show for pro scouts
By Mackenzie Rodrigues | Contributing Editor
March 22, 2018
The newest Panther football players are just getting used to life in Oakland at spring practices. The draft-eligible former players, however, had a chance Wednesday morning to impress NFL scouts and potentially find their new homes. Representatives for all 32 NFL teams gathered in the UPMC Rooney...
Pickett proves worth as rising Panthers star
By Trent Leonard | Staff Writer
March 20, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Sports Features
First-year Kenny Pickett wasn’t supposed to take a snap last year, much less lead the team to the biggest win of the season. As the third-string quarterback for the Pitt football team entering the 2017 season, he was firmly entrenched behind redshirt senior Max Browne and sophomore Ben DiNucci. The expec...
Bentley brings brute force to Pitt D-line
By Alex Lehmbeck | Staff Writer
March 20, 2018
Rivalries are just for fans? Don’t tell that to 2018 Pitt commit Tyler Bentley. He is looking forward to the Panthers’ battles with one in-state foe as much as anyone else. “The one thing I’m looking forward to is playing Penn State, for sure,” Bentley said. “I have a couple of friends t...
Pitt brings new quarterback to town
By Alex Lehmbeck | Staff Writer
March 14, 2018
Pitt football midyear junior college enrollee Ricky Town comes to Oakland with three years of college experience spanning three different schools. But despite his winding journey across college football, the quarterback has yet to play a single snap of Division I football. Town was aggressively...
Idowu gets set for senior season
By Michael Nitti | Staff Writer
March 14, 2018
Pitt senior linebacker Oluwaseun Idowu first came to Oakland from North Allegheny High School in 2014. There, Idowu played running back but transitioned to linebacker shortly after walking onto the Pitt football team in the fall of 2014. After redshirting his first year, it wasn’t until his second s...
Chase Brown brings talent to young Pitt offense
By Alex Lehmbeck | Staff Writer
February 28, 2018
Offensive tackle Chase Brown announced in June that he will attend the University of Pittsburgh, marking the Panthers’ ninth commit of the 2018 recruiting class and — more interestingly — Brown’s third stint at a university. Brown — unlike most of the class — enters the program with m...
Narduzzi rounds out staff for 2018 season
By Trent Leonard | Staff Writer
February 28, 2018
Pitt head football coach Pat Narduzzi announced three coaching appointments Saturday, finalizing his 2018 staff. Narduzzi promoted defensive line coach Charlie Partridge to assistant head coach, hired Cory Sanders as safeties coach and brought in Paris Johnson Sr. as assistant director of player perso...
Taysir Mack transfers to become a Panther
By Alex Lehmbeck | Staff Writer
February 20, 2018
Pitt has a storied history of great college wide receivers, including Larry Fitzgerald, Antonio Bryant and Tyler Boyd. Taysir Mack, a new Pitt transfer from Indiana University, hopes to follow in their footsteps. “Every time I walk in the door, I look at the Biletnikoff Award, and I’m just li...
Pitt to Pros: Donald dominates NFL
By Jon Shaiken | Staff Writer
February 15, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Sports Features, Top Stories
Before Aaron Donald was the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year, he spent his Saturdays terrorizing college quarterbacks at Heinz Field. In the NFL, Donald has a reputation of being a hard worker and relentless competitor playing for the Los Angeles Rams. According to Chris Lasala, Pitt’s associat...
Blake Zubovic lines up at Pitt
By Alex Lehmbeck | Staff Writer
February 12, 2018
Belle Vernon offensive lineman Blake Zubovic committed to Pitt last June. He was the ninth commitment of the 2018 class. This was a big commitment for Pitt, as it finds itself particularly shorthanded on the offensive line going into the 2018 season. Listed as a three-star recruit by Rivals, Zubovic was ranked as ...
Pitt announces Dave Borbely as new offensive line coach
By Grant Burgman | Sports Editor
February 12, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
The Pitt football team announced on its website on Monday, Feb. 12, that head coach Pat Narduzzi has hired Dave Borbely as the new offensive line coach. Borbely comes over from Maryland where he has coached the last two seasons. Previously, he was the offensive line coach at 11 different schools si...
Pitt nabs top recruits on National Signing Day
By Jordan Mondell | Assistant Sports Editor
February 7, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt football has almost rounded out its squad for the 2018 season after National Signing Day Wednesday. Some players who signed were expected, including Belle Vernon offensive lineman Blake Zubovic and linebacker Wendell Davis of Richmond, Virginia, who both gave their verbal commitments to Pitt last year. Still, five brand-new Panthers have si...
Seven Panthers invited to NFL combine
By Grant Burgman | Sports Editor
February 6, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
There will be seven Pitt Panthers potentially heading to Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis for the NFL Scouting Combine this March. Among the Panthers going to Indianapolis are wide receiver Quadree Henderson, safety Jordan Whitehead and offensive lineman Brian O’Neill, who each announced that they we...
Shocky Jacques-Louis lands at Pitt
By Alex Lehmbeck | Staff Writer
February 6, 2018
When Shocky Jacques-Louis committed to Pitt Dec. 20, 2017, the football team finally landed its highest-rated recruit. Jacques-Louis joined the Panthers after a tumultuous recruiting process saw him decommit from two other schools. Jacques-Louis is listed by 247sports.com as a three-star, 6-foot-1, 175-pound athlet...
Pitt receives commit from 3-star recruit Erick Hallett II
By Jordan Mondell | Assistant Sports Editor
February 4, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt football received another commit for the 2018 class in Erick Hallett II, according to a tweet posted Sunday morning. The 5-foot-11 and 175-pound defensive back is a 3-star recruit, according to 247sports.com, and was one of the top uncommitted players in Texas. He helped lead his team at Cy-Fair High School to a 6A-DII championship in...
Pitt hires Archie Collins as 10th assistant coach
By Grant Burgman | Sports Editor
January 31, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Uncategorized
The Pitt football team announced on its website on Wednesday that former Central Michigan secondary coach Archie Collins will be joining next year’s coaching staff. The NCAA allows football programs to hire up to 10 assistant coaches starting this January. The team has not yet specified what Col...
Prediction: Patriots to pin 6th Super Bowl Win
By Jon Shaiken | For The Pitt News
January 30, 2018
With their offensive and defensive coordinators in line for head coaching jobs elsewhere and quarterback Tom Brady on the wrong side of 40, this weekend may be the New England Patriots’ last legitimate shot at a championship for the foreseeable future. New England will be going for their second S...
Jake Kradel stays home to join Pitt
By Alex Lehmbeck | Staff Writer
January 30, 2018
Jake Kradel stirred up the Pitt Panther fan base when he announced his commitment to the University of Pittsburgh. Kradel’s tweet, announcing he was “STAYING HOME,” racked up over 1500 likes. The 290-pound offensive guard is ranked as a three-star recruit by 247sports.com. He went to Butler ...
Randy Bates feels welcome at Pitt
By Colin Martin | Staff Writer
January 30, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
When Josh Conklin left the Pitt football program to become the head coach at Wofford, Pitt head coach Pat Narduzzi had to find someone to replace the long-standing assistant — and quickly. Narduzzi called on an old friend to fill the position. Randy Bates was officially introduced as Pitt’s new defensive ...
Noah Palmer brings local flair to Pitt defense
By Alex Lehmbeck | Staff Writer
January 24, 2018
Noah Palmer finished his high school football career with a win at Heinz Field. The 2018 Pitt football signee is hoping for many more victories in the stadium during the next four years — but this time in a blue and gold uniform. Palmer is listed as a 6-foot-4, 215-pound strong-side defensive end by 247spo...
Pitt football looks ahead to difficult non-conference schedule
By Brandon Glass | Staff Writer
January 21, 2018
With the recent finalization of Pitt’s 2018 football schedule, it’s never too early to start planning ticket purchases and tailgates. The team is set to face a tough non-conference schedule, including two perennial national title contenders and a team that just went undefeated. While ACC oppon...
ACC releases 2018 Pitt football schedule
By Grant Burgman | Sports Editor
January 17, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
The Atlantic Coast Conference released the 2018 football schedules of each of its members Wednesday afternoon. Included in the release was the Pitt Panthers 2018 schedule, which features eight games against teams that made bowl games in 2017. Of those eight teams, the Panthers will face five teams that fin...
Wendell Davis brings linebacker depth to Pitt
By Alex Lehmbeck | Staff Writer
January 17, 2018
When Wendell Davis committed to Pitt in June of 2017, the Panthers realized right away they had gotten a good one. Head coach Pat Narduzzi tweeted his excitement fewer than 20 minutes later, with a hearty “PITT IS IT!! #L1TS8URGH #H2P #X2.” The three-star prospect, according to rivals.com, is a 6-foot-2, 215-pound linebacker from Richmond, Virginia, and one of 17 players to sign their National Letters of Intent to Pittsburgh on Dec. 20. The selection of Pitt comes over some major offers, including Boston College, Duke, Michigan State and UCF. ...
Pitt football signs Randy Bates to be defensive coordinator
By Grant Burgman | Sports Editor
January 13, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
When the Pitt Panthers football team lost to Northwestern last December, 31-24 in the Pinstripe Bowl, Northwestern linebackers coach Randy Bates was celebrating on the Northwestern sideline. Next fall, Bates will be on the Panthers sideline with head coach Pat Narduzzi’s staff. Pitt announced Saturd...
Steelers seek revenge on Sunday
By Dominic Campbell | Staff Writer
January 12, 2018
With a forecasted low of 2 degrees in Pittsburgh Sunday, the Jacksonville Jaguars won’t have the luxury of playing in the warm Florida sun when they play the Steelers at Heinz Field in the AFC divisional playoffs. The Steelers finished the regular season with a 13-3 record, which gave them the AF...
Defensive coordinator Josh Conklin leaves Pitt
By Jordan Mondell | Assistant Sports Editor
January 2, 2018
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt defensive coordinator Josh Conklin will be leaving the team for Wofford College, head coach Pat Narduzzi confirmed Tuesday. Reports Monday night said Wofford — an FCS school in South Carolina — would hire Conklin as the new head coach of the Terriers, which Pitt confirmed Tuesday. “We...
Panthers pounce during early signing period
By Dominic Campbell | Staff Writer
December 26, 2017
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
The ink has dried on 16 letters of intent for Panther football so far, as new faces signed up to be sporting blue and gold at Heinz Field in 2018. The first early signing period in NCAA college football history — from Dec. 20 through Dec. 22 — concluded Friday with 16 of 17 commits officially ...
Pitt lands two recruits before signing day
By Grant Burgman | Sports Editor
December 19, 2017
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
With no bowl games to look forward to over the holiday season, the Pitt Panthers football team got to work improving next year’s team early this year. Two recruits announced their intent to sign with Pitt via Twitter on Monday. Marquis Williams, a senior cornerback at Cardinal Gibbons High School in Fort ...
O’Neill declares for NFL draft
By Grant Burgman | Staff Writer
December 15, 2017
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt will now lose its third player from this year’s roster to the NFL. Redshirt junior offensive tackle Brian O’Neill joins juniors Quadree Henderson and Jordan Whitehead in declaring for the draft this April. O’Neill announced his decision in a statement released to the media on Friday morning. ...
DiNucci announces transfer from Pitt
By Jordan Mondell | Assistant Sports Editor
December 14, 2017
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Backup Pitt quarterback Ben Dinucci has announced his decision to transfer, according to a Tweet posted Thursday afternoon. The redshirt sophomore and Pine-Richland High School graduate announced, with two years of eligibility left, he will be moving to an undisclosed school in January of 2018. ...
Whitehead announces entry into NFL Draft
By Jordan Mondell | Assistant Sports Editor
December 11, 2017
Filed under Football, Sports, Top Stories
Pitt football has lost yet another member of the squad to the NFL, as junior defensive back Jordan Whitehead declares for the 2018 draft. The Aliquippa native and former WPIAL player made his announcement Monday morning on Twitter. “After much thought and discussion with my family, I have decided to begin prepar...
3 times Pitt beat the clock
By Dominic Campbell | Staff Writer
December 10, 2017
Filed under Football, Men's Basketball, Sports Columns
It’s those last-minute moments, when the game is close and time is expiring, that make a game exciting for fans to watch. Whether it’s basketball, soccer or football, buzzer-beating scores can turn a game around. Pitt has played in many incredible last-minute games over the years, but there are...
Junior-college quarterback commits to Pitt
By Jordan Mondell | Assistant Sports Editor
December 10, 2017
Pitt football just signed a junior-college quarterback for next season, extending their roster under center. Tyler Zelinski of Erie Community College said Sunday on Twitter he committed to Pitt as a walk-on. After some consistent performances at the end of the season, first-year Kenny Pickett emer...