PITTSBURGH — The Pitt Panthers are making several adjustments as they gear up to face No. 20 Clemson, with some players set to make their first start of the season. Nate Yarnell will step in for Eli Holstein, who is dressed but unable to play. Additionally, Jackson Brown is taking on the right tackle position, marking both his first start of the season and his career. Ryan Jacoby returns to his role at left guard, recovering from an ongoing ankle injury.
P.J. O’Brien Jr. is starting at safety, taking the place of Javon McIntyre, although both will play significant roles in the matchup against Clemson. The team will otherwise maintain the same lineup as last week, with Konata Mumpfield and Daejon Reynolds, who returned from early exits during the game against Virginia, back in the roster.
The finalized offensive lineup is as follows:
Quarterback: Nate Yarnell
Running Back: Desmond Reid
Wide Receivers: Konata Mumpfield, Censere Lee, Daejon Reynolds, Kenny Johnson, Poppi Williams
Tight End: Gavin Bartholomew
Offensive Line: LT Ryan Baer, LG Ryan Jacoby, C Lyndon Cooper, RG BJ Williams, RT Jackson Brown
On defense, the lineup includes:
Defensive Ends: Nate Matlack, Jimmy Scott
Defensive Line: Sean FitzSimmons, Nick James
Linebackers: Kyle Louis, Brandon George, Rasheem Biles
Cornerbacks: Tamon Lynum, Ryland Gandy
Safeties: Donovan McMillon, P.J. O’Brien Jr.
For special teams:
Kicker: Ben Sauls
Punter: Caleb Junko
Long Snapper: Nilay Upadhyayula
Holder: Cam Guess
As the Panthers face Clemson, this matchup provides a chance for younger players to step up and make their mark, potentially contributing to the team’s development and depth moving forward. The decision to stick with personnel from the prior game may help maintain continuity as they prepare for the challenge ahead.
In summary, the Panthers are making strategic changes to their lineup, hoping to leverage both experience and fresh talent against a ranked opponent. This situation could foster a positive competitive spirit among the team, ultimately leading to growth and improvement throughout the season.