Pitt Prepares for Tough Matchup Against Georgia Tech

Pittsburgh, PA – The University of Pittsburgh’s football team faces a significant challenge this Saturday in Atlanta against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. The No. 15 Yellow Jackets (9-1, 6-1 ACC) have the nation’s top offense, averaging 496.7 yards per game, led by Heisman Trophy contender Haynes King at quarterback.

Pitt’s head coach Pat Narduzzi emphasized the importance of offensive strategy. “Offensively, we’ve got a great challenge. It starts up front with our line and their defensive line. We have to protect our quarterback and be two-dimensional,” he stated.

Defensively, Pitt ranks 32nd nationally in yards allowed per game (325.2) and an impressive ninth against the run (90.3). In contrast, Georgia Tech has struggled defensively, sitting at 103rd in total defense (409.2) and 95th against the run (166).

Recent games showcase Georgia Tech’s vulnerabilities. Boston College rushed for 175 yards, while N.C. State gained 243 yards in their 48-36 victory over the Yellow Jackets. Other opponents, including Virginia Tech and Clemson, also exceeded 170 rushing yards. Georgia Tech is allowing an average of 4.6 yards per carry.

For Pitt, the availability of running back Desmond Reid is uncertain due to an ankle injury sustained against Notre Dame. Reid, who has battled injuries throughout the season, was listed as questionable on the latest availability report. His absence may lead to more playing time for freshmen Ja’Kyrian Turner and Juelz Goff.

<p“(Turner) has shown what he can do,” Narduzzi said regarding the potential impact of his young players. “Juelz Goff can go, and we’ll see where (Reid) is.”

Regardless of the backfield situation, the matchup through the air looks promising for quarterback Mason Heintschel, as Georgia Tech’s secondary has allowed 243.2 passing yards per game, ranking them 103rd in college football.

Following a difficult game against Notre Dame, Pitt aims to regain its offensive momentum. A victory is crucial for the Panthers (7-3, 5-1) to keep their ACC title hopes alive. Meanwhile, Georgia Tech could secure its spot in the championship game with a win.

For Pitt to keep pace with the Yellow Jackets, they must improve their possession time. “If we play with a bit more tempo, the ball’s more in our court,” center Lyndon Cooper explained. The team also emphasized improving its third-down efficiency, having gone 0 for 13 in their last game.

Coach Narduzzi noted the need for strategic adjustments, particularly focusing on third-and-long situations. “We need to get more third downs working. We’ve got to block them up and keep our quarterback clean,” he added.

Pitt players are determined not to let last week’s loss impact them. “We know we’re a much better team than that,” Cooper said. “We’re onto the next team, which is Georgia Tech.”