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Pittsburgh Missing Starting Running Back Rodney Hammond Jr. For Cincinnati Matchup

A major blow to the Panthers.

Russ Heltman

Nov 11, 2023; New York, New York, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers running back Rodney Hammond Jr. (6) runs the ball defended by Syracuse Orange defensive back Justin Barron (8) during the second half at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 11, 2023; New York, New York, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers running back Rodney Hammond Jr. (6) runs the ball defended by Syracuse Orange defensive back Justin Barron (8) during the second half at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports / Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports
In this story:

CINCINNATI — Scott Satterfield's defense is facing a shorthanded Pittsburgh offense next week when the Panthers come to town. The team announced starting running back Rodney Hammond Jr. is ineligible for the 2024 season, and thus misses the Week 2 matchup against Cincinnati.

Hammond posted career-highs in snaps (323), rushes (118), and rushing yards (547), last season to go with four touchdowns and 60 yards receiving. It amounted to a 69.7 PFF grade.

Pitt will rely on 5-8 Western Carolina transfer Desmond Reid Jr. (88.9 2023 PFF grade at the FCS level) and Derrick Davis (13 career snaps) in his stead. Cincinnati had one of the worst run defenses in the country with Dontay Corleone last season and may still not have him for next week's game as Pitt is suddenly shorthanded on the other side.

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Russ Heltman
RUSS HELTMAN

Russ Heltman is a contributor for AllBearcats and AllBengals. He is the morning host and producer for 89.3 WMKV in Cincinnati, OH. Russ can be found on Twitter: @RussHeltman11 or you can reach him by email at Heltmandm@yahoo.com.

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