National Football League

Pitt regrouping after early reality check

Published Sep. 9, 2013 8:23 p.m. ET

foxsports

The Pittsburgh Panthers think the best thing about their long-anticipated ACC debut is that it's finally over.

A week removed from a one-sided 41-13 loss to Florida State, the Panthers say they're ready to move on. Pittsburgh hosts New Mexico on Saturday looking to build on a few of the positives they gained while getting whipped by the Seminoles.

Quarterback Tom Savage says the offense can be ''special'' and believes the jitters of playing on national television against a conference power will only help Pitt get ready for the bulk of the season.

Tight end Manasseh Garner pointed to the 11 true freshmen who played as proof the Panthers have young talent. The key this weekend will be Pitt's defense, which allowed Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston to be nearly perfect in the rout.