University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Panthers Turn Focus to Final Scrimmage to Close Spring
4/9/2026 3:04:00 PM | Football
PITTSBURGH—With spring practice in its final stretch, the Pitt Panthers are turning their attention to Saturday's final jersey scrimmage, where competition and continued development will be the primary focus.
Following Thursday's 14th practice, head coach Pat Narduzzi described a shorter session as the team begins to shift into game mode.
"It wasn't a long practice, about an hour and 45 minutes," Narduzzi said. "Right now, we're just getting primed up for the spring game."
This year's format will differ from past seasons, as Pitt will conduct a straightforward jersey scrimmage rather than a traditional draft-style game. The result, Narduzzi expects, will be a more competitive environment.
"It'll be more intense than a normal scrimmage," he said. "It won't be as long, but it'll be good work, especially for the guys who need reps."
Those additional reps will be key, particularly for players competing for roles. One of the top position battles remains at quarterback behind Mason Heintschel, with Narduzzi pointing to Saturday as an important evaluation opportunity.
"It's a battle right now," he said. "Saturday will be a big day to see what they do."
As competitive as the scrimmage will be, Narduzzi emphasized that health remains the top priority.
"Number one is to stay healthy," he said. "You don't want to lose a guy in a spring game."
He also hopes to see balance, with both the offense and defense showing progress.
"When the defense is out there, you want stops. When the offense is out there, you want touchdowns," Narduzzi said. "If one side dominates completely, it's a bad day."
That balance has been a point of emphasis throughout the spring as the Panthers installed significant volume on both sides of the ball.
"We've thrown a lot at them," Narduzzi said. "It might not always look as clean as you want, but we're testing how much they can handle. I do think their knowledge has improved."
On offense, wide receiver Bryce Yates has emerged as a leader while continuing to grow within the system.
"Just understanding coverages, why I'm running certain routes and having better awareness," Yates said. "That's been the biggest thing."
Yates also pointed to continued growth from Heintschel, particularly in his decision-making and overall command.
"He's making better decisions, more controlled and more aware," Yates said. "He just looks comfortable."
Defensively, end Jaeden Moore has taken a step forward after working back from injury last season.
"I probably felt like myself again around February," Moore said. "Now it's easier to play fast and make plays."
Moore credited improved health and a deeper understanding of the scheme, while also noting strong competition along both lines of scrimmage.
"They've gotten better," he said of the offensive line. "It's good to get different looks."
As Pitt prepares for its final spring session, the message remains consistent: treat Saturday as another opportunity to improve.
"It's an opportunity every time you step on the field," Moore said. "You never know when it could be your last."
