University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Talkin’ Pitt: The Details Make the Difference
10/13/2026 3:30:00 PM | Football
Straight from the podium: What Pitt’s coaches and players are saying as the Panthers prepare for this week’s matchup at Boston College.
PITTSBURGH—Offensive line coach Jeremy Darveau, safety Cruce Brookins and linebacker Jeremiah Marcelindiscussed Pitt's growth up front, defensive communication and attention to detail as the Panthers prepare to visit Boston College.
Darveau: "Five guys playing as one."
Darveau challenged Pitt's offensive line to make quarterback Holden Geriner comfortable in his first start against North Carolina. He credited the group's experience, preparation and chemistry for answering that challenge.
"I really challenged these guys to step up and protect their butts off," Darveau said. "I think they answered that call."
That trust has developed through years of playing together. Darveau said the line's veteran leadership helps younger players grow while allowing the entire group to recognize and handle different defensive looks.
"Five guys playing as one has been important to us," he said.
In the running game, Darveau has been encouraged by fewer mental mistakes and a commitment to staying attached to defenders and finishing blocks. He believes there is still more to accomplish.
"We've got room to grow," he said. "We can get better and continue to develop in the run game, and we will."
Brookins: "The little details are where you get beat."
Brookins believes discipline and attention to assignments have helped Pitt's secondary limit explosive plays. His own development has come from recognizing situations, studying opponents and trusting what he is coached to read.
"The little details are where you get beat," Brookins said.
That approach will be important against Boston College's mobile quarterback. Brookins emphasized that keeping him contained requires all 11 defenders to handle their responsibilities.
"If you read your key, it'll take you to the football," he said.
Brookins also praised Cole Woodson for playing fast and physical in his first start, which included an interception against North Carolina. Even with those contributions, he sees opportunities for the defense to improve.
"We played well, but we have to be better," he said. "That's the end of it. We've got to be better."
Marcelin: "If you strive for perfection, you can be exceptional."
For Marcelin, the linebackers' identity begins with consistent physicality. His growth in the middle of the defense has also required film study, anticipation and the confidence to help teammates recognize what is coming.
"The next level is clearly and consistently communicating that to everybody, letting everyone know what's going on," Marcelin said.
He credited linebackers coach Joe Bowen with preparing the group to recognize problems and correct them during games.
"As players, we have to think on our feet, understand what's going on, and adjust and adapt in the moment," he said.
Looking back at North Carolina, Marcelin pointed to the small margins that determine outcomes. While encouraged by much of the defensive performance, he remains focused on eliminating the mistakes that can change a game.
"You can never be perfect, but if you strive for perfection, you can be exceptional," he said.
"We will play better defense. I truly believe that."
