Pitt Receives Boost in the Defensive Line Room

PITTSBURGH — Pitt is receiving a boost in the form of a starting defensive tackle returning to the lineup.

Nick James didn’t make the trip to North Carolina last week due to an undisclosed injury, which gave way for other defensive tackles to make an impact against the Tar Heels. But he dressed and went through warmups, paving the way for his return.

James isn’t starting though. He’s likely to feature in the rotation behind Sean FitzSimmons and Nahki Johnson, who were named the starters in pregame. Nahki Johnson, Isaiah Neal, Francis Brewu and Elliot Donald will also feature in the rotation.

James has recorded 135 defensive snaps this season, which trailed only Nahki Johnson among defensive tackles before last weekend, and he’s recorded five tackles (two solo), a half tackle for loss and a pass breakup. His impact hasn’t resulted in a ton of stats, but he’s been the most consistent defensive tackle so far this season.

The Pitt defensive tackle will be relied upon to create push upfront against a Cal running back unit missing its star.