As the #18 Pittsburgh Panthers prepare to face off against the #20 SMU Mustangs this Saturday in Dallas, both teams received promising news regarding the health of their star quarterbacks. With undefeated records hanging in the balance, the availability of Pitt’s Eli Holstein and SMU’s Kevin Jennings could prove pivotal in this top-25 ACC showdown.
Holstein Ready to Lead Pitt’s Charge
Redshirt freshman Eli Holstein, a highly-touted transfer from Alabama, sent shockwaves through the Pitt fanbase when he exited last week’s 41-13 victory over Syracuse with an undisclosed injury. Holstein, who has been a driving force behind the Panthers’ explosive offense, was hurt while finishing a quarterback option run in the fourth quarter.
However, head coach Pat Narduzzi put fears to rest during his Wednesday night radio show, confirming that Holstein has been cleared to play against SMU. “Eli Holstein is ready to go and got cleared today,” Narduzzi told 93.7 The Fan. “Eli Holstein is ready to roll. That’s excellent news.”
Holstein’s presence will be crucial as Pitt looks to extend their perfect 7-0 start, the program’s best since 1982. The young quarterback’s poise, athleticism, and strong arm have been instrumental in the Panthers’ success thus far, and his leadership will be called upon once again in this high-stakes matchup.
Jennings Aims to Suit Up for SMU
On the other sideline, the Mustangs are cautiously optimistic about the status of their own signal-caller, Kevin Jennings. The dynamic quarterback took a substantial hit to his knee during last weekend’s win against Duke, leaving his availability for the Pitt game in question.
According to sources close to the situation, Jennings is expected to attempt to play against the Panthers. While he still needs to be cleared for contact, the quarterback has participated in practice this week in a limited capacity, a positive sign for the Mustangs.
“Kevin is a tough competitor and a leader on this team. If there’s any way he can be out there, he will be. We’re preparing for all scenarios, but having Kevin on the field would be a huge boost for us.”
– SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee, per a team source
Jennings’ dual-threat abilities have been a cornerstone of SMU’s high-powered offense, which has propelled the Mustangs to a 7-1 record, with their lone loss coming in a hard-fought battle against Michigan early in the season. His presence would undoubtedly bolster SMU’s chances of handing Pitt their first loss of the year.
A Clash of Undefeated Titans
With both teams boasting impressive records and high-octane offenses, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas. The winner of this top-25 ACC battle will not only maintain their unblemished record but also solidify their position in the conference standings and the national spotlight.
- Pitt enters the game at 7-0 overall and 3-0 in ACC play, tied atop the conference with Clemson and Florida State.
- SMU sits at 7-1 overall and 4-0 in the ACC, holding a one-game lead over Memphis and Cincinnati.
As kickoff approaches, fans and pundits alike will be keeping a keen eye on the health and performance of Holstein and Jennings. Their ability to lead their respective offenses could very well determine the outcome of this highly anticipated matchup and have significant implications for the ACC race moving forward.
With so much on the line, the Pitt-SMU showdown promises to be one of the most exciting games of the college football season. As the Panthers and Mustangs prepare to clash, the football world eagerly awaits to see which undefeated team will emerge victorious and take a significant step towards ACC supremacy.
