The Post-Gazette graded Mason Heintschel and the rest of Pitt’s offensive players last week. Today, it’s time to shift focus to the other side of the ball.

This second and final installment of our report card breaks down the Panthers’ defensive units, highlighting the playmakers, the trouble spots and the key moments that shaped the season.

Defensive line

Pitt’s defensive front was the backbone of the entire team, powering one of the top run defenses in the country.

The Panthers surrendered just 97 rushing yards per game and routinely put opponents behind schedule, forcing them away from their preferred scripts. Outside of tough outings against Notre Dame and Miami — two of the best rushing units they faced — this group consistently won the line of scrimmage. Even Georgia Tech’s Haynes

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