Good not good enough for Pitt in 2023's new era of college football

The first Pitt football team played three games in 1890, didn't bother to identify a coach, and only achieved one victory, a 10-4 triumph at Geneva.

There are currently 55 Pitt coaches and staff members, ranging from coordinators to dietitians, who significantly contribute to one of the greatest ACC programs.

But becoming "among the best" is no longer sufficient. Coaches in college football make millions of dollars, and their jobs frequently hinge on whether or not a field goal attempt lands between two uprights.

Fans expect something unique, or at least something that comes near. Good is nice, but remarkable is the aim as Pitt football enters its 134th season, the 11th in the ACC and the 9th under head coach Pat Narduzzi.

When the team of coach Paul Chryst won seven games in 2013, things were good. Pitt aspirations are higher now.

In order to increase recruitment, keep supporters and contributors interested, and give Pitt a favored seat at the table in the upcoming round of league realignment, Narduzzi must uphold or surpass the best of the ACC while also gaining national respect.

Pitt opens the season against the tiny FCS school in Spartanburg, S.C. (enrollment, 1,759). Pitt may score in the 50s. Some fans will not be satisfied with anything less.

The schedule is challenging, but optimism and confidence are high among players (not a surprise) and there is experience in some form at every position.