Crowded RB Rotation Costs Pitt Against West Virginia

A crucial error reflected why a crowded running back rotation

PITTSBURGH -- Rodney Hammond's power running helped the Pitt Panthers set a physical tone for the 106th Backyard Brawl, rushing seven times for 41 yards on the opening drive, one of just two possessions that ended in points all night long. 

But Hammond had to wait more than a full quarter to touch the ball again, while Daniel Carter and C'Bo Flemister stepped in. For the third time in as many games, Pitt has failed to establish a top tailback and it has cost them. 

Head coach Pat Narduzzi said Flemister and Hammond played well, but was critical of Carter, a typically reliable and versatile player who was nothing of the sort against West Virginia. His false start penalty cost Pitt a first down around midfield when the offense was moving and had a chance to add to their three-point lead.

“You talk about critical plays, Daniel Carter goes in and we’ve got a fourth and one and quarterback sneak called," Narduzzi said. "He can just stand in his stance and jump offsides and give up the ball. We got to punt it when we had a first down and who knows what happens after that."

Narduzzi had said prior to the game that he was hoping to feed Hammond early and often, but abandoned that plan following the first drive. After rushing seven times on the first 7:20 of the game, Hammond rushed just seven times for the rest of the night, which Narduzzi said was in an effort to keep him fresh. 

But in doing so, Pitt put Carter in unfavorable situations and kept their best running back off the field. In addition to his penalty, Carter had a key drop on third and long in the fourth quarter that in all likelihood, would have resulted in a touchdown. 

Hammond has just three more touches than Carter and four more than Flemister through three games this season. Hammond is listed as the top running back on the depth chart, but hasn't been used like one. 

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