Pittsburgh30 @FINAL 13Syracuse , Week 8, Oct 18, 2025

Pitt's offensive line allowed seven sacks and failed to establish a run game, with only 42 rushing yards from Ja’Kyrian Turner. This weakness could be exploited by N.C. State's defense.

Pitt's defense held Syracuse to 212 total yards and forced three interceptions, continuing their strong run defense (2.16 yards per carry allowed). This unit will be key against N.C. State.

Kenny Johnson's 66-yard punt return for a touchdown was a game-changer, providing a 10-point halftime lead. Special teams could be a factor again.

True freshman Mason Heintschel completed 54% of passes for 143 yards with one interception and was sacked seven times. His protection and decision-making need improvement.

Pitt has won three straight games, but coach Narduzzi acknowledged the team didn't play well. They will need to clean up penalties (25 combined) and offensive execution to beat N.C. State.

Rickie Collins threw 3 interceptions and was inconsistent, leading to a brief benching. The offense managed only 212 total yards and 3.3 yards per play, with 6 three-and-outs.

Syracuse sacked Pitt's quarterback 7 times, with Kevin Jobity Jr. recording 3 sacks. However, the defense couldn't overcome the offensive struggles.

Syracuse had only 74 yards and 5 first downs in the first half, with 14 rushing yards on 12 attempts. A costly punt return touchdown allowed just before halftime gave Pitt a 17-7 lead.

The Orange have lost 3 straight and face 3 of their next 4 games on the road against ranked opponents, starting with No. 12 Georgia Tech.

Coach Fran Brown admitted poor clock management at the end of the first half and acknowledged the need to better develop young quarterbacks like Collins.