PITTSBURGH — Pitt opened the 2024 season with a 55-24 victory over Mid-American Conference opponent Kent State.
The Panthers ushered in a new era on offense with Kade Bell’s system unveiling itself to college football. Pitt totaled 560 yards on offense with redshirt freshman quarterback Eli Holstein leading the way.
Appointed the starting role earlier in the week, Holstein went 30-for-40 with 336 passing yards and three touchdowns, along with one interception. Holstein took to the podium following the win to discuss his first-career start.
Along with Holstein, running back Desmond Reid made his Panther debut in a big way with a 78-yard punt return for a touchdown. He would score another on the ground all while rushing for 145 yards. He spoke on his performance.
Linebackers Brandon George and Kyle Louis also addressed the media following the game as the defensive unit held the Golden Flashes to 212 yards, with just 31 coming on the ground. Louis also figured in with one of Pitt’s five sacks. George also added a big strip sack and fumble recovery for the Panthers.
