Charlie Partridge Looking For One More Pitt DE

Defensive line coach Charlie Patridge wants one of his reserves to step up into a bigger role.

PITTSBURGH -- The Pitt Panthers are back among the national leaders in sacks, tied for 11th in FBS with 3.5 per game. But both head coach Pat Narduzzi to defensive line coach Charlie Partridge have said the pass rush hasn't been affecting games the way they'd like it to. 

Part of getting the Pitt defensive line to make a tangible impact on the game involves getting the best four linemen on the field and while the Panthers love their depth, Patridge said they are looking for one of his reserve defensive ends to prove he's deserving of a bigger and more permanent spot in the rotation. 

"There are three defensive ends that I’m sorting through and seeing who’s going to have the impact between Sam [Okunlola], Jimmy Scott and Nahki Johnson," he said.

Statistically, Okunlola has been the most impressive of the three so far. He's made just three total tackles but two of them have been sacks. Meanwhile, Johnson and Scott have combined for just three tackles in four games. 

Still, Patridge has been pleased with each of their play through four games. The decision he has to make will be more about who can provide more elite, starter-quality production moving forward.

"Not disappointed with any of those three," Partridge said. "I’m waiting for one to take that jump, take that leap, separate themselves as an example. The defensive tackles, we’re obviously excited about the growth of Jules, you have the three senior defensive tackles, … I’m happy with it but I’m waiting for guys to take that dominating, ‘I’m here, I’m your next guy’ step.”

Overall, Patridge said he's been happy with the play up and down the defensive line, but with the Panthers riding a three-game losing streak, the sense of urgency has been heightened and the team needs nothing but the best if they are to right the ship. 

“I’m happy with the rotational guys and what they’re doing when they’re coming in and doing it. I’m doing some sorting out." 

Make sure you bookmark Inside the Panthers for the latest news, exclusive interviews, recruiting coverage, and more!

Pitt's Front-Loaded ACC Schedule Opens Up Postseason Possibilities

Kenny Johnson's Role in Pitt Offense Keeps Growing

Pitt Looking for Offense to Support Christian Veilleux

Pitt LB Kyle Louis Shows Promise in First Start

Pat Narduzzi Encouraged by OL Progress Despite Injuries

Pat Narduzzi Addresses QB Situation for Virginia Tech

• Follow Inside the Panthers on Twitter: @InsidePitt