Pitt Football Spring Game: Panthers' Offense Shows Off Big Play Abilities

Pittsburgh concluded spring practice under new head coach Paul Chryst on Saturday with its annual Blue-Gold Game, held at Martorelli Stadium at North Hills High School as opposed to Heinz Field.

Scoring was not kept over the two-hour scrimmage.

Nonetheless, sophomore running back Isaac Bennett more than impressed, rushing for a game-high 124 yards on 23 carries, including a long of 51. It was his fourth run of at least 50 yards this spring.

Senior quarterback Tino Sunseri, who has started the last 26 games for the Panthers, also looked comfortable under center, completing 13 of 27 passes for 147 yards and one touchdown. Sophomore Mark Myers also finished 10-of-16 passing for 167 yards and one touchdown. Myers' most impressive play was his touchdown toss: a 58-yard strike to Brandon Ifill.

The Panthers' first-year coach largely sounded impressed afterwards.

"I saw some good things," Chryst said. "We also had some things we'll need to clean up and some mistakes we'll need to eliminate. I think we're working hard. There are some areas where we are getting better. We just have to keep working hard and then have a great summer and an important fall camp."

The defensive effort was highlighted by senior safety Andrew Taglianetti's 30-yard interception midway through.

Chryst is taking over for Todd Graham, who left in January to accept the Arizona State head coaching job.

Pittsburgh is expected to resume practice in early August with its season opener against Youngstown State scheduled for Sept. 1.

For more news and analysis on the Pittsburgh Panthers, follow along at SB Nation Pittsburgh, or visit Cardiac Hill.

College Football: