Third-Down Woes Come Back to Bite Pitt

The Pitt Panthers did not convert a single third-down opportunity against Florida State.

PITTSBURGH -- The Pitt Panthers' offense scored just seven points in their loss to Florida State, and their inefficiency on third-down opportunities is a root cause of that issue.  

Pitt's offense went 0-for-11 on those chances, which is not a recipe for success. Whether it was a lack of execution, untimely penalties or ineffective play calls, there are several reasons as to why the Panthers couldn't get the job done when they needed it most.  

Pat Narduzzi praised Florida State's defense and the way they prepared for those game situations while also critiquing Pitt's lack of discipline. 

"Without rewinding, you look at we're 0 for 11 on third down. We didn't convert," Narduzzi said. "Obviously you give Florida State credit. There's a reason they're No. 4 in the country. They played good third down defense. When you look at it, probably too long of third down conversions. I mean, any time you're behind the sticks and it's third and 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 32, whatever it is, those are hard to convert. Again, it starts with illegal procedures and guys jumping offsides and little discipline things that drive me crazy."

Christian Veilleux was in agreement with Narduzzi, stating the offense can't afford to beat themselves and lose focus. 

"I think we had a lot of false-start penalties that didn’t help us," Veilleux said. "Like I said, I think we were pretty undisciplined. Coach Narduzzi is gonna pull up all the penalties from today tomorrow, and I think that list is gonna be pretty long. When you’re playing the No. 4 team in the country, you can’t shoot yourself in the foot.”

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