University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Pitt Returns to Practice Following Spring Break
3/17/2026 2:21:00 PM | Football
PITTSBURGH—Pitt Football returned to the field Tuesday for Practice No. 4 of spring drills at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, resuming work after a nine-day break for spring recess.
As expected, Head Coach Pat Narduzzi said the Panthers showed some rust in their first practice back, particularly when it came to execution and attention to detail.
"My first impression was it was sloppy," Narduzzi said. "They were gone for nine days, and it just wasn't as clean as I'd like it to be."
Turnovers were a key issue during the session. While Narduzzi credited the defense for creating takeaways, he emphasized that the offense must do a better job protecting the football moving forward.
"There were too many turnovers on offense," he said. "Credit the defense, but we cannot be careless with the football."
One of those defensive plays came from safety Josh Guerrier, who recorded an interception during team periods. Narduzzi said the young defensive back continues to develop into a reliable option in the secondary.
"He's athletic, he's a great cover guy, and he just keeps getting better every day."
Despite the inconsistencies, Narduzzi noted the value of getting back on the field and using the practice as a learning opportunity.
"We got our work in, and that's how you learn," he said. "We'll come back and have a good Thursday practice."
Along the defensive line, veteran Jimmy Scott said the group is continuing to build cohesion, with new additions adjusting quickly to Pitt's system.
"I think the new guys are looking good," Scott said. "They've got to learn the playbook and get used to playing in our defense, but through four practices, the new tackles and even the freshmen are definitely looking good."
Scott has also embraced a larger leadership role this spring as one of the unit's experienced players.
"For so long I've been looking up to other guys," he said. "Now it's about setting a good example and being that guy younger players can follow."
And while sack numbers often draw attention, Scott said his focus remains on impacting the game in multiple ways.
"The biggest thing is disrupting the quarterback," he said. "Sometimes the stats don't tell the whole story."
On the offensive side, guard BJ Williams pointed to continuity as a strength, with several returning players helping establish chemistry across the unit.
"We've got that chemistry now," Williams said. "We know what each other is thinking, so it's easier to be on the same page."
He added that protecting the quarterback and improving the run game remain top priorities as the offense continues to develop this spring.
"Protecting the quarterback is something we pride ourselves in," he said. "And opening up holes for our running backs. Once you run the ball, the pass game opens up."
He also highlighted the leadership presence of quarterback Mason Heintschel.
"Mason's a natural-born leader," Williams said. "When he speaks, people get behind it."
As the Panthers move forward, Narduzzi stressed that Tuesday's practice is part of the process, with the focus now shifting to improvement.
"We took a step back today," he said. "That can happen. The key is how we respond."
Pitt will return to the practice field Thursday as spring drills continue.
