Pat Narduzzi is clearly Herm Edwards School of Coaching.
Social media and college football fans slammed the Pittsburgh coach for choosing a conservative strategy that ultimately backfired as Pittsburgh lost 48-46 in six overtime innings to Toledo in Thursday's Game Above Sports Bowl. did.
Rather than go for the win, Narduzzi made a tying field goal from the 1-yard line in the second overtime.
“4-and-1, if we don’t get it, we lose the game.” Narduzzi said. “I don't want it to end like this. I want the kids to create the play. For me, I always put it in the hands of the kids. The coaches make the decisions to lose or win the game. I don't agree with that decision.”
Many took issue with Narduzzi's decision because of college football's extension rules.
The game went into overtime tied at 30, with both teams scoring touchdowns in the first period of overtime before Toledo (8-5) converted a field goal in the second period.
In the second overtime, if a team scores a touchdown, they must score two points.
Pittsburgh, second to receive the ball, moved the ball to the 1-yard line for a fourth-and-1.
Many believed Narduzzi should have gone for it because Toledo didn't have a chance and a field goal would have forced Pittsburgh to start defending two-point plays.
After the third overtime, the teams exchange two-point plays.
However, Narduzzi opted for the game-clinching field goal.
Both teams converted three two-point conversions before Toledo scored a fourth, but Pittsburgh was unable to match and close out the game.
After starting 7-0, the Panthers ended the season with six straight losses.
“Coaches make decisions, and I disagree with that,” Narduzzi said. “I don't care if I'm on the road or at home. I want my players to play.”
Furthermore, “I think the overtime system is a wonderful system.That's the way it is.''
Many will wish the coach had called.
Fantasy football guru JJ Zachariason tweeted: “I'm glad the world is witnessing just how bad of a person Pat Narduzzi is. Unfortunately, Pitt fans know this is nothing out of the ordinary.”
Barstool personality Dan “Big Cat” Katz has NSFW emotions.
Posted by Bryston Stricker of Bleacher Report: “I mean Jesus Christ. Narduzzi just kicked a FG from the one-yard line…Next play: We have to score from two and stop the other team. These guys are millionaires. You shouldn’t.”
