Pitt head coach says Clemson is the best team the Panthers have faced…..

**Pitt Head Coach Says Clemson is the Best Team the Panthers Have Faced**

**Pittsburgh, PA – December 6, 2024** — Pittsburgh Panthers head coach Pat Narduzzi has made a bold statement following his team’s recent matchup with the Clemson Tigers, calling them the best team the Panthers have faced this season. The Panthers, who have had a solid campaign in the ACC, were no match for Clemson in what turned out to be a one-sided affair that left fans and analysts alike impressed by the Tigers’ dominant performance.

Speaking at his weekly press conference, Narduzzi didn’t hold back in his praise for the Tigers, noting their depth, talent, and execution on both sides of the ball. “I’ll be honest – Clemson is the best team we’ve faced this year, hands down,” Narduzzi said. “They’re a complete team. Offensively, defensively, and on special teams, they’re as well-rounded as anyone. Their talent and coaching are top-notch, and they showed us why they’re one of the elite programs in college football.”

Clemson, which has been a perennial powerhouse in the ACC and nationally, showcased its full strength in the contest, ultimately overpowering Pitt with its high-powered offense and relentless defense. Tigers quarterback *Cade Klubnik* was efficient, orchestrating the offense with precision, while the defense, led by standout linebacker *Trenton Simpson*, stifled Pitt’s offensive attempts throughout the game.

Despite the loss, Narduzzi remained positive, emphasizing the lessons his team could learn from the experience. “We knew coming in that Clemson was going to be a tough opponent,” he said. “But I’m proud of the way our guys competed. We’re not where we want to be yet, but games like this give us a measuring stick. It’s about learning from this, improving, and getting ready for the next challenge.”

The Panthers, now 8-4 on the season, entered the game with a strong defense and a balanced offense but found it difficult to contain Clemson’s explosive plays. While Pitt showed resilience at times, they were simply outmatched by the Tigers’ superior talent, particularly in the trenches and in crucial third-down situations.

For Pitt, the road ahead remains challenging. While they still have a shot at a solid bowl game appearance, the loss to Clemson has exposed some of the Panthers’ weaknesses, particularly on defense and in handling high-caliber offenses. However, the experience of facing such a formidable opponent could serve as a valuable learning opportunity for Narduzzi’s squad as they look to close out the season strong.

Clemson, now poised for a potential College Football Playoff berth, demonstrated why they remain one of the top teams in the country. For Pitt, the loss is a tough one, but Narduzzi’s comments reflect an understanding that facing a team of Clemson’s caliber only serves to strengthen their resolve for the future.

With the season winding down, both teams will shift their focus to the postseason as they look to finish the year on a high note. For Pitt, their challenge will be learning from their defeat and applying those lessons to the remainder of their season. For Clemson, they remain a juggernaut to watch as they head into their quest for another national title.