Eli Holstein injury update: Pat Narduzzi reveals final decision on starting QB vs. SMU

Quarterback Eli Holstein is cleared for Pitt‘s matchup against SMU this weekend, Panthers head coach Pat Narduzzi revealed on Wednesday.

Holstein’s status for the matchup was questioned after leaving last week’s game against Syracuse early with an injury. He exited during the fourth quarter and Narduzzi wouldn’t comment on whether or not his starting quarterback would be available when asked earlier in the week.

The Alabama transfer was 11 of 15 passing for 108 yards and two touchdowns before leaving the game last week. The Panthers would go on to defeat the Orange 41-13 after a strong showing from the Panthers’ defensive unit.

Given that SMU is also one of the top teams in the ACC this season, Holstein’s presence in the matchup between the 7-0 Panthers and the 7-1 Mustangs is a big deal for both team’s preparation. SMU’s lone loss came during Week 3, falling to BYU 18-15 — who is undefeated heading into Week 10 — the Mustangs are riding a five-game win streak heading into the weekend.

Holstein has been one of the most impressive quarterbacks in the ACC this season, completing 64.2% (138-215) for 1,805 yards while throwing 17 touchdowns and five interceptions.

Given that Pitt’s defense forced five interceptions from Syracuse quarterback Kyle McCord last week, the Panthers’ defensive unit is preparing for a different kind of threat on Saturday.

On the other side of the ball, SMU has a standout quarterback of their own in Kevin Jennings. Jennings is a dual-threat quarterback and has 67 rushes for 321 yards and three touchdowns to go with his 1,594 passing yards and 10 additional touchdowns.

Kickoff between the Panthers and Mustangs is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET and will air live on the ACC Network. Despite Pitt’s undefeated status, SMU is a 7.5-point betting favorite at home with the over/under total set at 58.5 points.

Pitt will have four games remaining on their regular season schedule, including a matchup against Clemson at home which will also have major implications on the ACC standings closing in on the conference title games.