Recap
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Can Pittsburgh Panthers Maintain Their Unbeaten Streak After Latest Victory?

The Pittsburgh Panthers secured a hard-fought victory over the West Virginia Mountaineers with a final score of 38-34, maintaining their unbeaten streak to start the season at 3-0. The Mountaineers, on the other hand, now stand at 1-2 after this closely contested battle. A crowd of 66,087 fans witnessed an intense matchup at Acrisure Stadium that kept everyone on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.


Sep 14, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers place kicker Michael Hayes II (22) celebrates with Leighton Bechdel (98) after a field goal against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the second quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Key Performances and Game Highlights


The game was a showcase of talent and determination from both teams. The Panthers' quarterback Eli Holstein had an impressive outing, completing 21 out of 30 attempts for a total of 301 yards and three touchdowns. His performance was pivotal in securing this win for Pittsburgh, demonstrating his ability to lead under pressure with a quarterback rating of 187.28.


On the ground, Desmond Reid led the rushing efforts for Pittsburgh with 26 yards from 11 carries. Though it was Derrick Davis Jr.'s single touchdown that marked the team's rushing success in critical moments.


Sep 14, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers running back Derrick Davis Jr. (34) celebrates  a touchdown with BJ Williams (55) as West Virginia Mountaineers defensive lineman Fatorma Mulbah (54) looks on during the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Image Images

Receiving efforts were spearheaded by Kenny Johnson and Konata Mumpfield who combined for significant yardage gains and first downs; Johnson with five receptions for 79 yards and Mumpfield adding six catches for another 76 yards.


Defensively, Rasheem Biles stood out with seven tackles and one tackle loss among his contributions to contain West Virginia's offense. Kyle Louis also made crucial plays including an interception that halted momentum shifts during the game.


Sep 14, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers running back CJ Donaldson Jr. (4) breaks a tackle attempt by Pittsburgh Panthers linebacker Braylon Lovelace (on ground) in the second quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Image Images

Special Teams Impact


Special teams played a notable role in this victory as well. Ben Sauls executed flawlessly on field goals including hitting his longest attempt from 31 yards out contributing crucial points to secure their lead.


Brandon George’s punt return touchdown was another highlight moment that not only energized Pittsburgh but also showcased their ability to capitalize on every opportunity presented during gameplay.


Looking Ahead


The Pittsburgh Panthers are set to host Youngstown State Penguins at Acrisure Stadium on September 21st at 3:30 PM EDT. Fans can catch all the action live as it will be broadcasted on ACC Network Extra ensuring they don't miss any part of what promises to be another exciting matchup as Pittsburgh looks to continue their winning ways into mid-season form.

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