Pitt survives comeback attempt from North Carolina, controls its own destiny in ACC Coastal

On a night when Kenny Pickett set Pitt’s all-time passing yardage mark, the Panthers won a memorable overtime game against North Carolina.

Pitt’s offense struggled mightily in the second half, averaging just 3.3 yards per play. The Panthers were held scoreless while North Carolina found the 1

6 points it needed in order to send the game to overtime.

Pitt got the ball first and scored without much issue. Then, as UNC took possession, the rain in Pittsburgh picked up significantly. The Tar Heels ran four ineffective plays — a 1-yard loss, two incompletions and an interception — which secured the win for Pitt.

Pickett was sensational outside of a fourth quarter interception that North Carolina turned into a game-tying field goal. He threw for 346 yards and 3 touchdowns.

On the other side was Sam Howell, who d

id everything he could to give the Tar Heels a chance. He completed 22-of-33 passes for 296 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Pitt’s defense was able to limit Howell’s ground game. He rushed for just 28 yards on 17 carries on the night. Howell as also sacked 6 times in the first half.

The win means Pitt now controls its own destiny in the ACC Coastal. If the Panthers finish out their season with wins over Virginia and Syracuse, they will earn a berth in the ACC Championship Game.

Pitt hosts Virginia on Nov. 20.