In a noon-time ACC clash that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Pittsburgh Panthers emerged victorious over the Florida State Seminoles, 34-31, in a game that showcased the grit of a freshman quarterback, the return of a dynamic playmaker, and a defense that delivered when it mattered most.
Freshman quarterback Mason Heintschel turned in another solid performance, completing 21 of 29 passes for 321 yards and two touchdowns. Heintschel showed poise beyond his years. Despite throwing two interceptions, on back to back drives, he never let the mistakes define his game. Instead, he bounced back with confidence, orchestrating two crucial second-half scoring drives that ultimately lifted Pitt to the win. His ability to stay composed in high-pressure moments was a testament to his mental toughness and leadership.
A major boost for the Panthers came with the return of running back Desmond Reid, who had missed time due to injury. Reid’s impact was immediate and profound. He rushed for 45 yards and caught eight passes for a staggering 155 yards and two touchdowns, proving to be a nightmare matchup for Florida State’s defense. His versatility out of the backfield gave Heintschel a reliable target and added a layer of explosiveness to Pitt’s offense that had been missing in recent weeks.
While the offense lit up the scoreboard, Pitt’s defense made sure the Seminoles didn’t steal the game late. Linebackers Kyle Louis and Rasheem Biles were instrumental in shutting down Florida State’s final drive. Louis delivered a clutch tackle for loss on third down, and Biles followed it up by breaking up a fourth-down pass that sealed the win. Their timely contributions highlighted a defense that, while tested, refused to break under pressure.
Florida State, now 3-3 on the season, had entered the game looking to rebound from a tough stretch. Quarterback Tommy Castellanos showed flashes of brilliance, but Pitt’s defense kept him contained in the second half. The Seminoles’ offensive line struggled to protect him, especially in the fourth quarter when the Panthers’ pass rush intensified.
For Pitt, the win marks a pivotal moment in their season. Now 4-2 overall and 2-1 in ACC play, the Panthers are gaining momentum at the right time. Head coach Pat Narduzzi praised his team’s resilience, especially the performance of his young quarterback. “Mason didn’t flinch,” Narduzzi said. “He made some mistakes, but he kept fighting. That’s what you want to see from your leader.”
The victory also signals a turning point for the Panthers’ offense. With Reid back and Heintschel growing more confident each week, Pitt looks increasingly dangerous. The defense, anchored by Louis and Biles, continues to deliver in clutch moments, making this team one to watch as the season progresses.
Next up for the Panthers is a pivotal road test as they travel to Syracuse to face the Orange next Saturday
(photo courtesy of 247Sports)