Pitt Recruiting: Recruits Reaction to Clemson Visit

While Pitt fell short in their attempt to upset No. 20 Clemson, they were able to put on an entertaining game in front of the many recruits in attendance at Acrisure Stadium.

As PSN reported on last week, the Panther football program hosted a number of impressive recruits in their final home game of the 2024 season.

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The outcome of the game doesn’t really matter to the players as they’re more focused on things such as interaction with the coaching staff, GameDay atmosphere and watching player at their position perform in the game.

PSN has reached out to a number of the players in order to get their reactions to their day with Pitt and what stood out to them.

Here are the recruits that got back to us and as more do, we’ll add their responses to this story.

2026 3-star athlete Marcus Jennings (Michigan)-
“I left Pittsburgh with the impression that they are a great program who does a great job of developing athletes. I thought the community felt welcoming and the staff showed greats amount of love! I really like the staff, and they stand as one of the top schools recruiting me!”

2026 3-star athlete David Moore, Jr. (New Jersey)-
“I loved it. I loved the energy and the atmosphere of the stadium. It was an amazing experience. It felt like home!!! I was pleasantly impressed. Pitt is definitely feeling more and more like where I think I want to be.”

2026 3-star offensive tackle Ben Congdon (Ohio)-
“It’s a very good program and I know they didn’t come out with the win, but the way they played impressed me. My biggest impression was how well the coaches and players connected as one and were family. Pitt stand as a top 3 choice for me when considering my future.”

2026 quarterback Josiah Oxendine (North Carolina)-
“It was great getting back up to Pittsburgh for Senior Day. Pitt had some players out due to injury, which was unfortunate. However, they showed a lot of toughness and grit against a very good opponent. I always enjoy reconnecting with Pitt’s coaches and the recruiting department. They always treat me first class. Also, it was a pleasure to meet some of the Senior’s parents on the sideline. Mr. Neil George (LB Brandon George’s Dad) spoke with about the University and how much Brandon has enjoyed playing at Pitt. Mr. George said he had some connections in the Carolinas and knew my area and a lot about me. It was an excellent Game Day visit with great football weather. I appreciate Coach Duzzi and his staff for their investment in my recruiting.”

2026 3-star wide receiver Oliver Bender (Tennessee)-
“I had a great weekend in Pitt, the hospitality was great, and I felt at home. Despite the loss it was still a great game, and the atmosphere was one of a kind. It definitely is one of my favorite places. Walking around the stadium I could tell how much it means to the fans and how passionate they are, which I really liked. Pittsburgh is a great sports city.”

Courtesy Oliver Bender

2026 3-star defensive tackle JaySean Richardson (Virginia)-
“My biggest impression from Saturday is when all the fans started waving the towels when the defense get a huge stop! Also loved briefly talking to the d line coach, Coach Daoust. Looking forward to going back soon! Pitt stands top 3 with me.”

2026 3-star cornerback AJ Marks (Florida)- 
“My game day experience was great. I talked to most of the staff and had time to kick it with Coach Archie during pre-game. We got a chance to catch up while watching the Clemson WRs. I also got to see my guy Josh McCarty who plays for Pitt. They played hard, especially with injuries and not having their starting QB. Even though they didn’t win I had a great time on the visit and felt like they would have won if they had all their guys. Pitt is a place I definitely can see myself playing at.”

2026 4-star tight end Jackson Samuels Ford (Phoenixville, PA)-
“It was my first time in Pittsburgh and my first time at PITT, so I didn’t really know what to expect. The game was good and a very close one towards the end. PITT was high on my list before the visit, and the game was good so where they stand now is something I’m going to discuss with my parents and coaches.

2026 3-star linebacker Terry Wiggins (Coatesville, PA)- 
“I loved the experience being there. With my family being from Pittsburgh and a Steelers fan, I enjoyed being in that stadium watching the game. I thought Pitt’s defense was amazing, I really enjoyed watching them and the energy that was there too! A lot of coaches said they talked to some coaches from my staff and family friends saying how much of a great person I am. Pitt is definitely a top 5 school for me.”

Courtesy Terry Wiggins