The Pitt defense was supposed to be one of college football’s best this season, and it may well be when all is said and done. But on Saturday, the secondary was a liability, and the defensive line was unable to put any pressure on NC State quarterback Devin Leary. The defense was also entrusted with the outcome of the game and failed, allowing a mediocre offense led by an unproven quarterback to march down the field and win the game.
All told, the Panthers defense allowed the Wolfpack offense to accrue 398 yards. The secondary was especially weak, as it gave up 336 of those yards on passes and all four of the NC State touchdowns came through the air.