Pitt Panthers Just Miss Out on AP Top 25
Title: Pitt Panthers Just Miss Out on AP Top 25 The Pitt Panthers are currently ranked unofficially at No. 26 in the AP Poll, having earned 91 points, just missing the top 25. Utah State holds the No. 25 position with 118 points, indicating a significant gap between the two teams. Pitt previously ranked No. 18 in the AP Poll on December 2, following a strong start to the season and a notable overtime victory against Ohio State. This ranking was the first for Pitt since the 2022-23 season, where they were ranked No. 25 for the last week of the regular season. The Panthers' highest ranking since 2013-14 was No. 18, achieved for one week starting January 27 of that season. After suffering a heavy loss (90-57) to Mississippi State in the ACC/SEC Challenge on December 4, Pitt fell out of the AP Poll. Since that defeat, Pitt has rebounded with five consecutive wins, including three victories in the ACC, bringing their record to 12-2. Key recent victories include comebacks against Virginia Tech, Cal, and a dominant win over Stanford. Pitt's upcoming matchup against No. 3 Duke on January 7 is crucial, as it presents an opportunity to re-enter the top 25. A strong performance against Duke and subsequent games, like against Louisville, could secure Pitt's return to the AP Poll rankings.
Original Article: https://www.si.com/college/pittsburgh/news/pitt-panthers-just-misses-out-ap-top-25-2025
Original Article Author: Dominic Campbell
