Donovan McMillon Pushing for More Snaps

Donovan McMillon is pushing for more time in the Pitt Panthers defensive backfield.

Author:
Stephen Thompson
Sep 12, 2023 3:37 PM EDT

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PITTSBURGH -- Amongst all the bad that came from the Pitt Panthers' brutal 27-21 loss to the Cincinnati Bearcats were some encouraging performances on the defensive side of the ball in the second half.

One of those standout performers was Florida transfer Donovan McMillon, who helped the Panthers turn the game around after Pitt's run defense was gashed during the first 30 minutes while earning a larger share of the safety snaps in the second half.

“It was really exciting going out there," McMillon said. "Once I got out there, two or three plays in, I felt comfortable and just got to play my type of ball.”

McMillon finished the Cincinnati game tied for second on the team in tackles and was particularly effective filling in as a run-stopper. He played primarily at the boundary safety position, which requires a more physical skill set that McMillon enjoys.

He draws from his background as a standout, state runner-up wrestler at Peters Township High School to know the when, where and how of making stops against opponent rushers.

“I get that from my wrestling background, being able to fit gaps, shoot holes and makes aggressive tackles,” McMillon said.

That's helped McMillon force his way into the safety rotation, which is still wide open for whoever impresses coaches the most, according to defensive coordinator Randy Bates. Javon McIntyre and P.J. O'Brien earned starting jobs coming out of training camp, but Bates is leaving the door open for an expanded safety rotation.

“Donovan played well. He had a good game," Bates said. "Came in, did what he was supposed to do the way he was supposed to do it. As I always say, that’s a good competition back there and the best one this week will start.”

But McMillon is trying not to get too far ahead of himself. He's kept is head down, stayed appreciative of any playing time he does get and capitalize on those snaps.

“Wherever that goes," he said. "I’m just excited to go out there and play football.”

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