Pitt did lose several important players to the NFL Draft that begins Thursday, especially on the defense that became the ACC's third-best in 2020.
But the prospect of what the Panthers could bring on offense will be their best chance to put together a complete unit. Kenny Pickett's return gives Pitt the ACC's third-leading quarterback from 2020 with the prospect of playing with a more well-rounded group. Saturday's Blue-Gold Game showed several veterans return healthy and ready to contribute and new faces rise as potential playmakers.
Taysir Mack and Lucas Krull were supposed to be seniors who were a huge part of the Panthers' offense in 2020, but Krull suffered an injury that kept him out for all but one game and Mack had a nagging injury that kept him from playing at full speed. Both played very well Saturday and have received strong praises from both receivers coach Brennan Marion and Pat Narduzzi.
The Panthers also will get an offensive line that's already working to become a more cohesive unit after a full spring camp with hitting to improve their chemistry. A three-way battle at offensive tackle between Carter Warren, Matt Goncalves and Gabe Houy has looked promising, while transfer Marcus Minor has meshed well with fellow Jake Kradel at guard and Owen Drexel is even being compared to Jimmy Morrissey.
Vincent Davis was the only running back last year who could make defenders miss consistently and fulfill the several duties needed from a running back to protect Pickett, run the ball and be a viable receiving threat. Now, Davis is in a heated competition with Israel Abanikanda, whose speed and power look like a promising combination for the offense. Todd Sibley also looked like potentially a solid power back to offer variety out of the backfield.
A complete offense at each level would give the Panthers an advantage they haven't had in years, and could make them serious competitors in the ACC Coastal Division and compete for the ACC Championship Game.
YOUR TURN: Does Pitt have a good chance of making the ACC Championship Game?