Pittsburgh, PA
Oct 12, 2024
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No. 22 Pittsburgh edged out California 17-15 in a hard-fought contest, continuing their perfect season at Acrisure Stadium. The Panthers, held to just 277 yards of offense, found solace in Desmond Reid's powerful running game, which was highlighted by a spectacular 72-yard touchdown and a 5-yard score in the first quarter. Despite controlling the time of possession and outgaining Pitt, California was plagued by penalties and missed opportunities.
In the second half, the match became a display of defensive prowess, particularly from Pitt, which recorded six sacks to stymie Cal's offense. On the offensive side, California's Fernando Mendoza threw for 272 yards, connecting frequently with tight end Jack Endries, including a 19-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. However, the Bears' final attempt at a comeback fell short when Ryan Coe's 40-yard field goal veered wide right, sealing their fate and leaving Cal winless in the ACC.
Jaivian Thomas (California)
Thomas' 21-yard touchdown run, occurring after Cal's defense forced an early three-and-out, gave California a quick lead and set the offensive tone for the Bears.
Desmond Reid (Pittsburgh)
Reid's electrifying 72-yard touchdown on a bold fourth-down play gave the Panthers control, keying an early second-quarter lead that held throughout the game.
Ben Sauls (Pittsburgh)
In a showcase of special teams prowess, Ben Sauls nailed a 58-yard field goal, pushing the Panthers' lead to 17-6 and proving pivotal in a tight contest.
Jack Endries (California)
Endries hauled in a 19-yard pass from Mendoza, capping a 78-yard drive with a touchdown that drew California within two points, enlivening their comeback hopes.
Ryan Coe (California)
In a dramatic moment, Coe's 40-yard field goal attempt to seize the lead for Cal went wide right, ultimately sealing the Bears' narrow defeat in the final two minutes.
Cam Sidney (California)
Sidney's critical interception in the end zone thwarted a Pitt scoring threat, keeping the Bears' hopes alive in a third quarter dominated by defensive stands.
Desmond Reid (Pittsburgh, RB)
Reid powered Pittsburgh's offense with 120 rushing yards and two decisive touchdowns, including a daring 72-yard run that was pivotal to the Panthers' victory.
Fernando Mendoza (California, QB)
Mendoza exhibited tenacity, amassing 272 passing yards and a touchdown, maintaining his team's competitive edge against a persistent Pitt defense.
Jack Endries (California, TE)
Endries excelled with eight receptions totaling 119 yards, offering a reliable target for Mendoza and scoring Cal's final touchdown to bring them close to an upset.
Ben Sauls (Pittsburgh, K)
With a crucial 58-yard field goal, Sauls fortified Pittsburgh's lead, exhibiting clutch performance when his team needed it most.
Jimmy Scott (Pittsburgh, DE)
Scott was a defensive stalwart, recording a career-high three sacks that disrupted Mendoza's rhythm, and underscored Pittsburgh's defensive resurgence.
California Golden Bears
6
3
0
6
15
Pittsburgh Panthers
7
10
0
0
17
