Pat Narduzzi Confirms Pitt's Starting QB Change

The Pitt Panthers made some major changes to their latest depth chart.

PITTSBURGH -- Even during the bye week, the Pitt Panthers stayed busy. After a 1-4 start, reports that the coaching staff had been considering some major personnel changes surfaced and head coach Pat Narduzzi confirmed them as his team returned to practice. 

The Panthers's latest depth chart featured a new starting quarterback - Christian Veilleux, who replaces Phil Jurkovec as QB1. Jurkovec, contrary to some earlier reports, has not made the switch to tight end - at least in an official capacity - and is the backup in front of Nate Yarnell, who remains the third-stringer.

“Last week we made a change at the quarterback spot," Narduzzi said. "I’ve got a ton of confidence in Phil Jurkovec, even if you don’t or won’t. I still do. But I felt like we needed a spark at that position so we’ll see how that goes. … So Christian will be the guy there and we expect to have a good week there.” 

Veilleux will make just the second start of his college career and his first as a Panther this weekend against No. 14 Louisville. He made relief appearances against Wofford and North Carolina earlier this season. 

There are some other notable changes elsewhere on the depth chart. 

Kenny Johnson and Daejon Reynolds are listed as co-starters at wide receiver for the first time this season. 

Ryan Bear has been officially elevated to starting right tackle with Matt Goncalves out for the season. Bear played that position last time out against Virginia Tech. Jackson Brown moves up to backup left tackle as Bear is elevated as well. 

Bam Brima takes over at starting defensive end alongside Dayon Hayes, with Nate Temple relegated to a backup role. 

Pitt's full depth chart for the Louisville game is below:

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