Ferguson's 185 Rush Yards Drive Pitt to 34-11 Victory Over Georgia Tech
The Panthers used a dominant ground attack to snap a three-game losing streak, securing bowl eligibility before facing top-ranked teams in the ACC.
By James Brooks ·
Pitt football defeated Georgia Tech 34-11 on Saturday night at Acrisure Stadium, ending a three-game losing streak. The victory moved the Panthers to a 6-3 record and confirmed their status as bowl eligible. The win came in front of a sparse crowd, as many Oakland residents were likely out for Halloween festivities.
The offensive strategy centered on the running game rather than the passing attack. Fifth-year quarterback Holden Geriner, starting for the third time due to injury to Mason Heintschel, completed 13 of 30 passes for 180 yards and one touchdown. While his completion percentage was low, he managed the clock effectively without taking excessive risks. He connected on long plays with Censere Lee and sophomore Cataurus Hicks.
The true engine of the offense was freshman running back Damon Ferguson Jr. He carried the ball for 185 yards and two touchdowns, averaging six yards per attempt. The Panthers attempted 55 rushes, which was 23 more than their pass attempts. This heavy ground approach exploited a Georgia Tech defense that allows an ACC-worst 219.3 rushing yards per game.
The rushing depth proved vital with sophomore Ja'Kyrian Turner still sidelined. Sixth-year player La'Vell Wright also contributed to the effort. This balance is crucial as Pitt prepares for its remaining regular season games. The team faces Florida State on the 13th and Cal on the 28th. Both opponents are top four in the ACC for limiting rushing yards. Louisville sits between them in the schedule, allowing only slightly more rushing production.
The defense recorded a bounce-back performance but still faced challenges in critical moments. Pitt stalled on four consecutive plays from Georgia Tech's one-yard line. Several turnovers and missed opportunities occurred, including a fumble by tight end Carson Kent that fell into the end zone and another by running back Justin Cook in field goal range. Receivers also dropped several passes that could have extended the lead.
The Panthers now enter a bye week to address these execution issues. The upcoming slate includes three opponents with strong rushing defenses. While the season may not feature a fight for the conference title, the team has opportunities to improve its standing. The current record of 3-3 in conference play provides a foundation for the final stretch of the season.
