Sights and Sounds from Pitt Practice Sept. 18

PITTSBURGH — After facing Georgia Tech’s triple option last week, Pitt’s defense has to gear back up for a passing attack this week, and it’s one that may be vulnerable, as North Carolina quarterback Nathan Elliott has thrown four interceptions compared to one touchdown over the first two games for the Tar Heels.

The Pitt defensive backs were working on their ball skills, along with switching off receivers against North Carolina’s multi-receiver sets.

The linebacker were working on re-routing tight ends and running backs coming out of the backfield, and the defensive line was honing its skills identifying RPOs and making open-field tackles.

ONE MORE JOB FOR PICKETT?

Kenny Pickett walked into the Pitt practice facility on Tuesday carrying his brace for his left knee — a nod to Pat Narduzzi’s demand that he wear it at all times.

But before he put it on for his quarterback drills, Pickett took some time to practice taking long snaps and holding with the specialists.

Holder Jake Scarton returned from injury on Saturday and Alex Kessman made all of his attempts, so it seems that the position is in good hands. Perhaps Pickett would be the option if something were to happen to Scarton again.

Here’s Pickett getting the ball down:

You can see that he didn’t let his knee brace get too far away. Here’s Pickett working with the rest of the quarterbacks. Freshman Nick Patti is wearing a white No. 11, meaning that he’s playing Elliott on the scout team.

BORBS THE BOSS

Dave Borbely’s offensive line has gotten rave reviews for its run blocking from Narduzzi — and from PSN’s Film Study — for its play so far this season. The Panthers are No. 39 in the country in yards per carry. Here’s Borbely putting his men through the paces on Tuesday. (Language may be NSFW).

SIGHTS AND SOUNDS

Check out the rest of the sights and sounds from Pitt’s practice as the Panthers ramp up for the Tar Heels.