Pittsburgh coach Pat Narduzzi spent part of the week grousing about his defense, the one that had served as more bystander than difference-maker during the Panthers' unbeaten start.His players were listening.

Desmond Reid ran for 120 yards and two touchdowns, and No. 22 Pitt held off California 17-15 on Saturday. The Panthers improved to 6-0 for the first time since 1982 by relying on a defense that racked up six sacks on a day their revamped offense struggled.

The speed in Desmond Reid’s legs, the power in Ben Sauls’ left foot and Pat Narduzzi’s risk-taking on fourth down were vital elements in Pitt’s 17-15 victory against California. Give Pitt credit for all three.