PITTSBURGH — The Pitt Panthers are making some strategic adjustments as they prepare to face No. 20 Clemson, with several key players set to make their first starts of the season.
Nate Yarnell will take over as starting quarterback, stepping in for Eli Holstein, who, despite dressing and warming up with the team, is unable to play. Additionally, Jackson Brown is set to start at right tackle, marking his first career start. Ryan Jacoby returns to his position at left guard after dealing with a persistent ankle injury.
In the defensive lineup, P.J. O’Brien Jr. is being given the nod at safety over Javon McIntyre, although both will see considerable playing time against Clemson.
The Panthers are otherwise maintaining the same lineup that saw action last week, with Konata Mumpfield and Daejon Reynolds returning after exiting early in the game against Virginia.
The starting lineup for the game includes:
**Offense:**
– QB: Nate Yarnell
– RB: Desmond Reid
– WR: Konata Mumpfield
– WR: Censere Lee
– WR: Daejon Reynolds
– WR: Kenny Johnson
– WR: Poppi Williams
– TE: Gavin Bartholomew
– LT: Ryan Baer
– LG: Ryan Jacoby
– C: Lyndon Cooper
– RG: BJ Williams
– RT: Jackson Brown
**Defense:**
– DE: Nate Matlack
– DL: Sean FitzSimmons
– DL: Nick James
– DE: Jimmy Scott
– LB: Kyle Louis
– LB: Brandon George
– LB: Rasheem Biles
– CB: Tamon Lynum
– S: Donovan McMillon
– S: P.J. O’Brien Jr.
– CB: Ryland Gandy
– CB: Rashad Battle
**Special Teams:**
– K: Ben Sauls
– P: Caleb Junko
– LS: Nilay Upadhyayula
– H: Cam Guess
This matchup presents an excellent opportunity for the Panthers to showcase their depth and resilience in the face of challenges. The adjustments in the lineup, including the development of young players like Yarnell and Brown, point towards a future filled with potential. Fans can look forward to seeing how these changes play out on the field against a formidable opponent like Clemson.
Overall, while the changes present challenges, they also signify growth and opportunity as the Panthers strive to make their mark this season.