Holstein Thrives Under Pressure, Teammates Rally Behind Him

PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Last season, quarterback Eli Holstein noted that Pitt went 7-1 when he was a fully fit starting player. Coming back for 2025 despite chances to explore other options, Holstein and Pitt are now aiming for a title.

Our only loss came against a playoff team, and that was during our first year in the system and our initial season with this offensive scheme," Holstein stated as Pittsburgh began practice on Wednesday at the South Side. "It was truly our first year together as a team, and all these players are returning this year having improved both offensively and defensively as a group. This boost in performance has given us much more confidence to step onto the field freely and enjoy ourselves.

Three touchdown throws in each of his initial five starting appearances, featuring some remarkable turnarounds against Cincinnati and West Virginia. In his first six contests, Holstein earned ACC Freshman of the Week honors five times. He received recognition as the Walter Camp Offensive Player of the Week after setting a Pittsburgh rookie record with 381 passing yards, adding 76 more yards on the ground along with a touchdown against conference opponent North Carolina.

Holstein is currently in good health, according to Pat Narduzzi, Pittsburgh's head football coach, who made this statement for the first time since early last season. Narduzzi brought up his name alongside Heisman Trophy candidate Kenny Pickett. The focus now shifts to how this redshirt sophomore manages the pressure ahead.

Honestly, it's the same level of pressure," Holstein stated. "He consistently anticipates outstanding performance from me. I truly value him for that. There hasn’t been much change; the same standard remains—to go on and secure a championship.

There’s pressure on everyone," stated Pitt's offensive coordinator Kade Bell. "There's pressure on me. There's pressure on Eli, but we welcome it. We discuss desiring that pressure.

I desire for him to become an All-ACC performer. I hope he gets the opportunity to compete for the Heisman Trophy. That's what we expect from our quarterbacks. Perhaps this isn't the standard for other quarterback groups, but ours aims to be among the top players nationally.

I'm looking for a player, not someone who's merely a game manager. It's tough to secure a title with only game managers. You want someone you can trust with the ball and know they'll lead you to victory.

Narduzzi remarked that Holstein had "an incredible first practice," not only passing the ball but also running with it. Bell stated that Holstein and the offensive team are prepared to move forward due to his knowledge and the way he imparts it to others. Holstein has taken on perhaps the most significant aspect of being a quarterback—being a leader.

He's becoming more outspoken," said All-American Desmond Reid. "Last season, he was still a young player. He didn't speak up as much as typical quarterbacks do. During this off-season, I've noticed him being more assertive and treating things more seriously now. He's spending a lot of time reviewing game footage with Coach Kade.

As the Panthers' running back stated, an offensive team's success depends on how well the quarterback performs.

He's a born leader," said Pitt offensive tackle BJ Williams. " Whatever he tells us, we'll go along with him. He's constantly smiling, and regardless of the situation, he keeps that grin. I really appreciate that about him.

Receiver Kenny Johnson mentioned that they have spent the entire summer collaborating, including many of the starting players as well as some newcomers. It’s not only about training whenever possible, but also spending time together socially. Holstein frequently invites the team over to his house.

He truly stepped up as a leader this year," said tackle Ryan Baer. "He carries some motivation due to how last season concluded. That injury really affected him. I believe he's set to have a big breakthrough this year.

Holstein views his fellow players as part of his family. Narduzzi mentioned that it's a program focused on relationships first. Can Holstein guide them toward greater achievements?