University of Pittsburgh Athletics
10/27/2026 2:28:00 PM | Football
Straight from the podium: What Pitt’s players are saying as the Panthers prepare for this week’s matchup with Georgia Tech.
PITTSBURGH—Linebacker Alex Sanford Jr., safety Josh Guerrier and offensive lineman Netinho Olivieri discussed staying together, correcting mistakes and focusing on the next opportunity as Pitt prepares to host Georgia Tech.
Sanford: "Play fast and stay together."
Sanford believes Pitt's path forward starts with the aggressive approach that defines its defense. Against Georgia Tech, that means meeting a running game designed to get offensive linemen onto linebackers and create downhill opportunities for its backs.
"I feel like if we continue to play aggressive defense, play fast and stay together, we'll finish the season pretty well," Sanford said.
As an older player, Sanford also sees a responsibility to keep teammates connected through adversity. He emphasized maintaining a positive environment and avoiding the finger-pointing that can pull a team apart.
"We're going to do everything in our power to keep the positivity going," he said.
For Sanford, moving forward means carrying the right mindset into preparation for the next opponent.
"We all want to win, and we're all going to do what we have to do to accomplish that," he said.
Guerrier: "We're worried about what's coming next."
Guerrier was grateful to return to the field against Miami and said he remains comfortable with the responsibilities of his safety position. His growth has come through film study, recognizing formations and motions, and communicating adjustments before the snap.
"I've got to control the defense in a sense—tell guys where to go or what checks to make," Guerrier said. "I feel like it's my job to do that. I like doing it. I love doing it."
After reviewing the Miami game, Guerrier identified tackling as a priority. Georgia Tech's quarterback presents another challenge with his ability to contribute as both a runner and passer, making disciplined assignments essential.
"You've got to stay focused and mentally locked in," he said.
With four games remaining, Guerrier said the Panthers are focused on the opportunity ahead.
"No matter what happened those past three weeks, we're not worried about that," he said. "We're worried about what's coming next, and we've got Georgia Tech."
Olivieri: "We've got to play together, all 11 of us."
Olivieri has grown more comfortable with the speed and physicality of the ACC since arriving from Penn. He credited the offensive line's communication and veteran leadership with helping him adjust to both the competition and Pitt's offense.
"Playing together as one group for the last eight weeks has been great for chemistry," Olivieri said. "We've been able to learn how to help each other where we might struggle a little."
Getting off to a faster start will require cleaner execution. Olivieri took responsibility for his false start against Miami and emphasized eliminating penalties and missed assignments.
"We've got to play together, all 11 of us," he said. "That can help us start faster, be one group and be successful this weekend against Georgia Tech."
Olivieri expects a battle against the Yellow Jackets' defensive front. His focus is on applying the lessons from previous games to this week's preparation.
"We're never looking at the past, only trying to learn from it," he said. "Then we move on to the next week."
