Nate Yarnell looked comfortable in a win against Boston College, and it looks like he didn’t miss a beat as Pitt flew down to Durham, N.C. to take on Duke.
After an opening series three-and-out, Yarnell led Pitt on a 60-yard drive that ended in a field goal. And he continued to settle in.
Yarnell led Pitt on a 15-play, 93-yard drive, capped by a 21-yard touchdown toss to Karter Johnson to take a 10-3 lead in the second quarter. It was a fitting conclusion for a nearly flawless drive for Yarnell.
With a 2nd-and-10 from the Duke 21, Yarnell rolled out of the pocket, hit Karter Johnson on the run and Johnson did the rest as he careened into the end zone.
Through nearly a half of play, Yarnell has completed 10-of-12 pass attempts (83%) for 88 yards and a touchdown — adding 10 yards on six carries.
He entered the game having completed 16-of-27 pass attempts (59%) for 330 yards with two touchdowns this season. He’s completed 26-of-41 pass attempts (63%) for 525 yards with three touchdowns over the last two seasons, prior to the Duke game, of course.
And it’s come as he’s waited his turn for a chance to lead the Pitt offense.
“It’s my job — doesn’t matter if I’m third, fourth or fifth string — to be ready to go in the game and all season, I made sure I was prepared for this moment so when my number was called, I would be ready,” Yarnell said.
Pitt is leading 10-3 late in the first half, but after a poor punt from Caleb Junko, Duke is driving inside the red zone.
Where has the offensive line been this season ?
In addition how has the defense forgotten how to wrap up a tackle ?