by Central Michigan rolled into the rolling hills of Pittsburgh with the hopes of defeating the nine-time national champion Pitt Panthers at home. Despite putting up a solid fight throughout the game on defense and having moments on offense that showed promise, the Chips failed to stay in the fight late in the game as they fell 45-17.
The Pitt offense early on was too fast and too strong for Central Michigan. Big play after big play crowded the scoresheet as the Chips were still trying to get their feet under them.
It took less than three minutes for Eli Holstein and the Pitt Panthers to get on the board. Holstein found one of his top targets from last season in Poppy Williams for a three-yard touchdown reception.
The Chippewas responded with a field goal in the second quarter after their run-heavy offense struggled to finish at Pitt’s end of the field.
Three quarterbacks took charge for the Chips, similar to what they did at San Jose State. Joe Labas got the majority of the snaps as the true passer for the Maroon and Gold. Jadyn Glasser had a few big plays, followed by Angel Flores, who had the least of opportunities.
Holstein racked up the touchdowns against Central Michigan in the first half. He found Justin Holmes and Josh Altsman on back-to-back scoring drives to extend the Pitt lead 24-10.
The Chips proceeded to give the Panthers a scare after intercepting an Eli Holstein pass and returning it within Pitt’s own 15-yard line. Glasser rushed into the Central touchdown as the clock was set to expire at the break.
The Chips went unanswered as they scored again in the middle of the third quarter to get within striking distance of the Panthers. Labas found Decorion Temple in the back of the endzone for both of their first touchdowns of the season.
As Sweet Caroline played and the quarter switched to the fourth quarter, the game was dominated by Narduzzi and his Panthers. Holstein earned his fourth and final touchdown on the day as he found Poppy Williams for another touchdown.
Pitt added two more touchdowns to their resume to end the day and turn what could have been a close game into a blowout, thanks to their last few scores.
Central Michigan played Pitt tough and gave itself a chance to compete against an opponent that received votes for the AP top 25. The scoreboard won’t reflect it, but this team is improved compared to seasons past.
An attitude that reflects that of the military schools and a style similar to the old Big East, the Chips could be a team that could compete once they enter MAC play.
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