The Panthers seemed to have the game in hand early, storming out to a in the first quarter. Aided by big plays, including a 44-yard strike from Pickett to Melquise Stovall, Pitt’s offense looked unstoppable under the lights.
The 2021 showdown between the and the North Carolina Tar Heels was more than just another ACC matchup; it was a primetime duel between two future NFL quarterbacks that lived up to every ounce of its hype. On a rain-slicked Thursday night at Heinz Field, Kenny Pickett and Sam Howell traded blows in a contest that ultimately needed overtime to decide a winner. The Pickett vs. Howell Duel Pitt vs. North Carolina 21
Nearly sent representatives to witness the quarterback battle, and the stars did not disappoint: The Panthers seemed to have the game in
In the extra period, Pickett wasted no time, finding Lucas Krull for an to put the Panthers ahead. The defense then sealed the victory when MJ Devonshire intercepted Howell on fourth down, sparking a celebration in the Steel City. Key Game Stats North Carolina Pittsburgh Final Score 30 Total Passing Yards Rushing Leader Ty Chandler (42 yds) Israel Abanikanda (63 yds) Receiving Leader Antoine Green (108 yds) Jordan Addison (84 yds) On a rain-slicked Thursday night at Heinz Field,
The Overtime Thriller: No. 25 Pitt Outlasts UNC in a 2021 Classic
This victory moved Pitt to 8-2 on the season, keeping their hopes for a historic alive and cementing Pickett's status as a top-tier Heisman contender.
However, the Tar Heels refused to fold. Howell connected with Antoine Green for a in the second quarter to spark life into the sideline. By the fourth quarter, UNC had clawed back to tie the game, even having a chance to win it in regulation before a late field goal attempt was blocked. Overtime Drama
