University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Panthers Build on Details in Spring Practice No. 8
3/25/2026 2:53:00 PM | Football
PITTSBURGH—The Panthers returned to the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex on Wednesday for Spring Practice No. 8, using the session to clean up details coming out of last weekend's scrimmage while continuing to build toward Saturday's second live evaluation.
After reviewing the film from the first scrimmage, the emphasis was clear: capitalize on opportunities and eliminate explosive plays. Defensive coordinator Cory Sanders noted that while the group showed competitiveness throughout, execution in key moments remains an area of focus.
"There were a lot of good things to learn from," Sanders said. "But we had some missed opportunities, some plays where we had two hands on the football and didn't come away with it. At the same time, we gave up too many explosive plays, especially in critical situations. That's where we've got to improve."
Wednesday's practice reflected that message. The Panthers spent significant time working in red zone, goal line and short-yardage situations, sharpening execution in areas that often determine outcomes on Saturdays. Sanders pointed to improvement from the weekend, particularly in edge setting and perimeter play, but emphasized the importance of stacking consistent performances.
"You saw growth from Saturday to today," he said. "Now it's about continuing to take those steps forward."
That growth is especially evident in the secondary, where a younger group continues to gain experience. With several new contributors rotating into key roles, communication and chemistry remain ongoing points of emphasis.
"There's a lot of ability back there," Sanders said. "Now it's about playing together, communicating and finishing plays."
The defense continues to be tested daily by quarterback Mason Heintschel, whose quick decision-making and ability to create explosive plays have provided a strong challenge throughout the spring.
At linebacker, competition and versatility have stood out through eight practices. Cameron Lindsey has spent much of the spring working at the 'MONEY' position, adjusting to a more downhill role within the defense.
"It's more condensed, so I can play faster and be more downhill," Lindsey said. "I feel like I've grown a lot just focusing on the details and being more professional in everything I do."
Depth has also emerged as a strength in the room, with multiple players rotating and pushing for roles as the spring progresses.
"I definitely think we've got a lot of guys who can play," Lindsey said. "Everybody brings something different, and it makes the whole group better."
On the offensive side, the running back room continues to take shape with a blend of experience and emerging talent. Synkwan Smith has made the most of his opportunities this spring after returning from injury, showing flashes of playmaking ability while continuing to refine his approach.
"I'm just happy to be back," Smith said. "I'm just trying to go hard every play and keep getting better."
Smith credited the veterans in the room for helping him develop consistency, particularly in the finer details of the position.
"Just the small things, running to the ball, playing fast and not taking plays off," he said. "I'm just trying to learn from those guys."
As the Panthers move deeper into spring, the message remains consistent: master the details. From alignment and communication to physicality and execution, each practice continues to build toward a more complete product.
The team will pause practice on Thursday to host its annual Pro Day at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, welcoming NFL scouts to evaluate Pitt's draft-eligible prospects.
Spring Practice No. 9 is scheduled for Friday and will serve as the final tune-up before the Panthers return to Acrisure Stadium for their second scrimmage of the spring on Saturday.
