The Panthers may be heading into the Peach Bowl without Kenny Pickett. On “The Dan Patrick Show” Wednesday, the Heisman finalist said he’s undecided about playing in the big game.
Though Pickett didn’t delve into his reasoning, it seems as if offensive coordinator Mark Whipple’s sudden resignation is playing a role in Pickett’s indecision. Nebraska announced Wednesday it’s hired Whipple to be its new offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.
“That’s personal with his decision and the information he gave me. So I’ll keep that tight. But it happens, things happen,” Pickett said about Whipple’s resignation. “He has his reasons, and I can’t thank him enough for all the things we’ve been able to accomplish together in three years. Seeing how much we grew, looking at the first two years and the last year. It was just a lot of hard work, and I’m very thankful for Coach Whip.”
Pickett reached tremendous heights playing under Whipple, setting team records this season in passing yards (4,319) and an ACC-record 42 touchdowns. Pittsburgh ranked third nationally in scoring and sixth in passing in 2021.
Last weekend, the 11-2 Panthers defeated Wake Forest to win their first ACC Championship. Pickett is the program’s first Heisman finalist since 2003.
If Pickett doesn’t play in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl against Michigan State, he won’t be the first college star who’s sat out non-playoff bowl games in recent years. The trend started with Christian McCaffrey six years ago, and has only accelerated since.
Pittsburgh hasn’t announced who will be calling plays in Whipple’s absence.
“It’s something I haven’t sat down and discussed with my family,” Pickett said. “It’s been a crazy past couple of days, getting the Johnny Unitas news and the Heisman news. It’s been kind of a whirlwind of two days.”
It’s also been a whirlwind of two days for Pittsburgh fans, especially if Pickett winds up opting out.