Pitt’s Defense Faces Florida State’s Turnover-Prone Quarterback

Pitt, 6-3, will host 4-5 Florida State on November 13. The teams have both had uneven seasons, though Florida State comes in after earning a road win over Boston College under interim coach Rick Stockstill. It was the Seminoles’ first ACC road victory since 2023, following the midseason firing of head coach Mike Norvell.

Daniels, a fifth-year senior who previously played for Stanford and Auburn, has thrown for 2,146 yards and 14 touchdowns. His 12 interceptions lead all FBS quarterbacks. Pitt has intercepted nine passes this season, including three by defensive back Raion Strader, and will look to add to that total.

Daniels is also a substantial running threat. Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi described him as “a linebacker playing quarterback” and said the Seminoles would use designed runs. The Panthers have allowed 68.3 rushing yards per game, the second-best mark nationally, and recorded 25 sacks. In all but one ACC game, Pitt has forced the other team’s starting passer to finish with negative rushing yardage; Boston College’s Mason McKenzie was the exception, with two yards on nine carries.

Pitt is expected to start fifth-year senior Holden Geriner at quarterback again. Florida State has allowed 239.4 passing yards and 28.3 points per game this season.