Another year, another debacle for the Pitt defense. Despite the shortcomings, the Panthers were able to eek out a 45-37 victory over FCS power Youngstown State at Heinz Field yesterday 45-37.

When new Pitt Head Coach Pat Narduzzi accepted the job in the off-season, it was clear to him following the huge collapse against Houston in the Armed Forces Bowl last year that this would be a major rebuilding job.

This was evident on the very first Youngstown State series. After Pitt failed to convert a first down on its first possession, the Penguins faced 3rd and 13 following Pitt’s Tyrique Jarrett sack of QB Hunter Wells. A couple of plays later, Wells hit YSU WR Jody Webb for 19 yards to the Pitt 29. The Panthers looked lost in their assignments.

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