Florida State had a “good couple of response practices” after the loss to Miami, coach Mike Norvell said on Wednesday morning.
“I just told the guys, the intensity of today — I felt them today,” Norvell said. “This team has done a good job even through disappointing circumstances of the way they've approached the work. … They brought the right mentality when it comes to what it needs to look like and the intensity.”
No. 25 FSU (3-2, 0-2 ACC) has turned its attention to Pittsburgh (3-2, 1-1) on Saturday at noon (ESPN). Coming off back-to-back losses, leadership will be critical to keep players focused and intent on a turnaround.
Norvell on Monday was asked about leadership, mentioning Tommy Castellanos as well as defensive tackle Darrell Jackson as being “remarkable” as a leader. He also discussed rover Earl Little Jr., center Luke Petitbon, receiver Duce Robinson, tight end Randy Pittman and the running back room.
Injury updates
Norvell didn’t offer definitive updates on safety Ashlynd Barker or right tackle Micah Pettus. Barker did not play against Miami, and Pettus walked off to the locker room after 25 plays against the Hurricanes.
“Ash, I think we're trending the right way,” Norvell said. “It's really probably going to be more of a game-time decision. He's gotten practice the last two days, which is the necessity to be able to have a chance. He's trending in the right way. Ash brings a great deal of physicality, speed, somebody that's playing at a high level.”
Norvell said Pettus is “definitely getting better as the week unfolds.”
FSU will release an availability report on Thursday afternoon, roughly 48 hours from kickoff.
Pitt’s playmaker
Pitt all-purpose back Desmond Reid has not played since the overtime loss to West Virginia on Sept. 13. A standout at Hollywood (Fla.) Miramar, Reid has 24 carries for 142 yards and a touchdown as well as six receptions for 71 yards.
“He's one of the most dynamic players in the ACC,” Norvell said. “He's got speed, he's extremely shifty, can catch the ball. He's a dynamic player and I'm fully expecting him to play this week.”
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