University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Offense Sets the Tone as Panthers Complete Seventh Spring Practice
3/23/2026 3:25:00 PM | Football
PITTSBURGH—Pitt Football returned to the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex for its seventh spring practice on Monday, building off a competitive scrimmage at Acrisure Stadium that saw the offense take early control.
Saturday's scrimmage, Pitt's first inside Acrisure this spring, featured 100-plus plays and provided one of the most complete evaluations of the Panthers to date. The offense emerged with a 52–24 edge on the scoreboard, fueled by explosive plays and steady quarterback play.
"Got a great scrimmage in on Saturday at Acrisure Stadium," Head Coach Pat Narduzzi said. "About 109 plays… overall, a really good day. I was happy penalty-wise, very few unforced errors."
At the center of the offensive success was quarterback Mason Heintschel, who delivered one of his most efficient performances of the spring.
"Mason played really well, he was outstanding," Narduzzi said. "He didn't turn it over at all."
Heintschel's command of the offense continues to stand out not only in execution, but also in leadership. Defensive lineman Isaiah Neal noted the quarterback's growing presence.
"He's got something special," Neal said. "When he talks, everybody listens and he believes what he's saying."
The passing game featured several standout performances, including a big day from wide receiver Bryce Yates, who hauled in multiple explosive plays and a touchdown.
"He's really smart, always does the right thing. You can count on Bryce," Narduzzi said.
Freshman Dylan Wester (seven receptions, 92 yards) and Malik Knight (four receptions, 97 yards, TD) also produced, while Demetrice McCray added a one-handed touchdown grab on a free play. Carson Kent, La'Vell Wright,Ja'Kyrian Turner, and Jake Sassic each contributed scores.
Up front, Pitt's offensive line took a notable step forward, limiting pressure and giving the quarterbacks time to operate.
"I thought the line overall was pretty solid… it wasn't a sack-fest," Narduzzi said.
That cohesion has been a point of emphasis throughout the spring, particularly with Ryan Carretta settling into the center position.
"We've been working well together," Carretta said. "A lot of us have played with each other, so that helps… we've definitely improved."
Carretta has also played a key role in organizing the offense and building continuity with Heintschel.
"He's always around us… whether it's in the facility or outside," Carretta said. "I think the whole group has gotten closer with him this offseason."
While the offense found success through the air, Narduzzi emphasized the need for continued improvement in the run game.
"I think we can be better running the ball, for sure, up front," he said.
Defensively, the Panthers showed flashes, particularly against the run, but left opportunities on the field.
"We dropped a few," Narduzzi said. "There were opportunities we had to take the scrimmage over, and we've got to make those plays."
Neal, who has transitioned from the interior to defensive end, has embraced an expanded role that allows him to play with more freedom.
"You get more space, more freedom to be an athlete," Neal said. "I feel like I'm trusting myself more out there."
The defensive front has also benefited from increased competition, with both returning players and new additions contributing to a deeper rotation.
"It's still early. We're getting to know each other," Neal said. "But I think there are areas where we've improved from last year."
In the secondary, Cruce Brookins continued his steady play, while a deep cornerback group has emerged as one of the team's more competitive units.
"We've got like six corners that are all fighting for time," Narduzzi said. "It's a good room."
Special teams provided a mixed evaluation, with strong performances from the placekickers contrasted by inconsistency at punter.
"I thought our kickers were outstanding," Narduzzi said. "The punters, we've got some work to do."
Through seven practices, Narduzzi remains encouraged by the team's overall approach and development.
"I love our team right now," he said. "They're engaged, willing to learn, we haven't had a bad practice."
With multiple practices still ahead and competition continuing to intensify, the Panthers will look to build on the momentum established during their first full scrimmage of the spring.
Pitt returns to the practice field Wednesday as spring workouts continue.
Players Mentioned
