Amber Aniston • November 1, 2024

Key Players for SMU and Pitt Cleared for Big Matchup

The highly anticipated Week 10 clash between No. 18 Pittsburgh and No. 20 SMU will feature two of the top quarterbacks in the ACC as both teams receive a crucial boost from their star players. SMU’s quarterback Kevin Jennings and Pitt’s Eli Holstein have both been cleared to play, setting the stage for a pivotal conference showdown that could have significant implications for the ACC standings.


The Mustangs (7-1, 4-0 ACC) host the undefeated Panthers (7-0, 3-0 ACC) at Ford Stadium, where both teams will put their impressive records and high-stakes ambitions on the line. With both quarterbacks ready for action, fans can expect an electrifying battle between two of the top offenses in the league.


Kevin Jennings Cleared for SMU

For SMU, the news that Kevin Jennings will start is a relief for the team and fans alike. Jennings, who has emerged as one of the most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks in the conference, sustained a lower-body injury during SMU’s narrow 28-27 victory over Duke last week. Despite taking a heavy hit in the fourth quarter and throwing three interceptions in that game, Jennings’ clearance means he will lead the Mustangs’ offense against a formidable Pitt defense.


Jennings has been a key factor in SMU’s success this season, boasting a 5-0 record as a starter. He has thrown for 1,594 yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions, while also adding 321 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. His dual-threat capabilities are expected to challenge Pitt’s defense, which has excelled in creating turnovers, including five interceptions in their win over Syracuse.


However, Jennings may have to adjust his style of play given that he isn’t fully recovered from his injury. His rushing ability, which has been crucial for SMU’s offense, could be limited. The Mustangs will likely lean more on their passing game and utilize Jennings’ arm, especially since he will be playing without star tight end RJ Maryland, who is out for the season.


Eli Holstein to Lead Pitt’s Offense

Pitt’s starting quarterback Eli Holstein has also been cleared to play after his status was in question following an injury last week. Holstein exited Pitt’s 41-13 win over Syracuse after a hit caused him to leave the game in the fourth quarter. Head coach Pat Narduzzi confirmed Holstein’s availability during his weekly radio show, ending speculation about whether the redshirt freshman would be ready for this high-stakes matchup.


Holstein, a former Alabama transfer, has had a standout season, throwing for 1,805 yards with 17 touchdowns and five interceptions while completing 64.2% of his passes. He has been instrumental in Pitt’s undefeated run, making clutch plays against strong opponents like West Virginia and Cincinnati. His ability to step up in critical moments has kept Pitt in the upper echelon of ACC teams.


Facing SMU’s top-ranked rushing defense, Holstein will need to be at his best. The Mustangs have allowed just 88.4 rushing yards per game and are expected to focus on forcing Pitt into passing situations. Holstein will need to exploit SMU’s vulnerable pass defense, which ranks 11th in the ACC, conceding 238.6 passing yards per game.


Key Matchup Factors

Both teams come into this game with formidable offenses and well-rounded defenses, setting up an intriguing battle. SMU ranks first in the ACC in rushing offense, averaging 194.6 yards per game, thanks to senior running back Brashard Smith’s 745 rushing yards and 10 total touchdowns. Smith’s contributions will be crucial, especially if Jennings is unable to fully utilize his mobility.


Pitt’s defense, meanwhile, is coming off a dominant performance in which they forced five interceptions from Syracuse’s quarterback. The Panthers have been one of the most opportunistic defensive units in the league, with redshirt sophomore linebacker Kyle Louis tied for second in the ACC with three interceptions. Pitt’s defensive line will aim to pressure Jennings and force errors, capitalizing on SMU’s tendency to commit turnovers.


On the other side, SMU’s defense has been just as impressive, especially against the run. The Mustangs’ defensive line, led by juniors Cameron Robertson and Isaiah Smith, has been a nightmare for opposing offenses. The unit has combined for 21 tackles for loss, and their ability to disrupt the line of scrimmage could make things difficult for Pitt’s rushing attack.


A High-Stakes ACC Clash

The outcome of this game could shape the ACC landscape as both teams have eyes on the conference title. SMU’s only loss this season came against undefeated BYU, but the Mustangs have been on a five-game winning streak since. Pitt, on the other hand, is 7-0 for the first time since 1982 and is looking to keep their perfect record intact.


The game will also feature intriguing strategic battles, with SMU’s high-powered offense going up against Pitt’s stingy defense. With both quarterbacks now cleared to play, the matchup promises to be one of the most exciting games of the season. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET on the ACC Network, and fans can expect a thrilling contest between two top-20 teams fighting for ACC supremacy.



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