Former Pitt quarterback Eli Holstein enters the transfer portal with two years of eligibility remaining. Holstein started 18 games for the Panthers. Over those games, he completed 61.8% of his pass attempts, throwing for a total of 3,309 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions. In addition, he contributed 416 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the ground. Which school makes the most sense?
Vanderbilt
Holstein would follow program-defining player Diego Pavia, but brings more arm strength. Pavia struggled with the deep ball, especially over the middle, where his passes fell short. Holstein, with a stronger throwing base, offers a better passing profile. In Vanderbilt’s spread option, Holstein could gain decent rushing yards, but likely won’t match Pavia’s impact on the ground.
Colorado State
Fort Collins lacks the glamor of a Power Four program, but the Rams offer Holstein a chance to start and succeed. New offensive coordinator Pryce Tracy wants aggressiveness, similar to his scheme at UConn, which emphasized big plays and a pass-heavy attack. The chance to play in a dynamic offense that displays skills to NFL scouts should appeal to Holstein. For the passer, the Rams may lack the pressure of Pitt, yet it could provide opportunity.
North Texas
Neal Brown replaces Eric Morris, who left for Oklahoma State. Brown aims to move past his 37-35 West Virginia tenure and, most recently, worked at Texas. He plans to mix the run game with intermediate passes and a mobile quarterback. Brown would not ask Holstein to do everything; instead, he wants a run-heavy attack with play-action options.
South Florida
Given Holstein’s ACC success, South Florida head coach Brian Hartline could bring him to Tampa for veteran stability. As a former receiver, Hartline wants his quarterback to throw. Florida’s numerous wideouts in the portal and high schools could help the Bulls add talent.
Unlike predecessor Alex Golesh, who preferred a dual-threat quarterback, Hartline’s history with receivers signals a shift. Last year, Holstein ranked No. 125 in PFSN’s QB Impact Rankings. More targets should improve that ranking.
James Madison
Holstein and new coach Billy Napier could see mutual redemption. Holstein would start at a program recovering from losing its last two head coaches to the Power Four. Napier’s tenure at Florida ended with a 22-23 record and midseason termination. Known for working well with quarterbacks, Napier won’t need to start from scratch with Holstein but can focus on refinement. As defending Sun Belt champions, the Dukes need a veteran leader.
Holstein lost his job to a true freshman after starting the majority of the season. From a pride standpoint, his next school could serve as motivation. Pitt opened the door for him to succeed; who will open the next door for him?
