Florida State Edges Pitt in Defensive Battle

Florida State earned a 16-10 road win over Pitt on November 13, relying on its defense and three field goals from Gabe Panikowski. The victory was the Seminoles’ second under interim coach Rick Stockstill and their second away from home, ending a road losing stretch that had lasted since late 2023. They are now one win from bowl eligibility.

Jasen Lopez led Florida State with five catches for 72 yards. The Seminoles held Pitt to 306 yards of offense, while linebacker Chris Jones recorded a team-high seven tackles before being ejected for targeting. Omar Graham Jr. helped close out the game, and Ashlynd Barker, Caleb LaVallee and CJ Richard each made six tackles. Panikowski connected from 37, 27 and 47 yards.

Quarterback Ashton Daniels completed 67 percent of his passes and accounted for 163 passing yards, but fumbled after a 12-yard run in Pitt territory late in the fourth quarter. The turnover gave Pitt a chance to move ahead. Florida State’s punting also had mixed results: Daniel Hughes averaged 41 yards, though one late kick put Pitt inside its own two-yard line.

Florida State’s remaining games are at home against NC State and Florida. The Seminoles are scheduled to host NC State on November 21 at 3:30 p.m. ET.