Pitt's spring player draft canceled as Pat Narduzzi seeks better matchups for Blue-Gold game

Pat Narduzzi likes the camaraderie and bonding created when his seniors draft players onto teams for Pitt’s annual Blue-Gold Spring Game.

But for the first time in nine seasons, Narduzzi has canceled the draft in the name of better matchups.

“I love the draft. It’s fun to get them in here and do it,” he said. “I’ve done it for years and years and years (including his time as Michigan State’s defensive coordinator).

“But sometimes, there are some mismatches you don’t want to see. I’d rather it be a cleaner scrimmage but stay safe at the same time.”

In the past four spring games — the 2020 event was canceled by the pandemic — the games have been either low scoring (10-7, 14-7 and 10-3) or one-sided (30-0).

Narduzzi is seeking better competition when this year’s spring game begins at 1 p.m. Saturday at Acrisure Stadium.

“The draft keeps them safer, but our guys are smart enough to do it the right way,” he said. “(Fans) will be more excited about this spring game than in the past. Just because you’ll have a different deal, better matchups.

“In the past, I didn’t care about the spring game matchups. But now, we’re going to change it and see how it goes. Matchups will be important in the spring game.

“Whatever is best for the team, but it will be competitive. You won’t be watching individual drills. It will be a game.”

Narduzzi didn’t reveal any details, but the coaches likely will get together to divide the personnel.

Meanwhile, the 13th of 15 practice sessions concluded outdoors Tuesday on a sunny South Side day.

Narduzzi said he was forced to apply punitive measures — extra running — when a fight broke out.

“It’s been a while since we’ve had that,” he said. “So they’re still on edge, which is good.”

Asked to identify the combatants, he said, “Too many. I don’t know who yet. I have to go back and watch the videotape.”

Normally, a practice fight doesn’t bother him.

“If it’s one-on-one, I’m good,” he said. “It’s when guys want to jump in … so, then they ran.”

Cornerback Marquis Williams wasn’t surprised to see a minor altercation among friends.

“We’re Pitt tough,” he said. “Everybody’s being tough. Everybody’s flying around. You never know when a fight might break out.”