Pitt quarterback Kevan Smith's poor play was a major reason the Panthers lost last week to Michigan State. And he got off to another bad start last night in the Panthers' 34-14 loss to Connecticut at Heinz Field.

Smith dropped back to pass twice on the Panthers' first offensive series. He was sacked the first time and was intercepted by Connecticut linebacker Danny Lansanah, who returned it to the Pitt 6.

Three plays later Lou Allen scored on a 1-yard run.

Smith's struggles -- plus and injury to his elbow -- led to the decision to insert heralded freshman Pat Bostick in the second half.

Bostick, who coach Dave Wannstedt announced as the starter at Virginia Saturday, completed 27 of 41 passes for 230 yards and a touchdown. Bostick did throw three interceptions, one which was returned for a touchdown, but appeared to grow more comfortable with each throw.

"Pat's confidence, you could see it grow greatly," tight end Nate Byham said. "I talked to him after the first two drives, I told him to calm his nerves a little bit, and he did and he started making great plays. That touchdown pass he threw was a great play, it reminded me of Tyler [Palko] last year."

More of the same

Pitt also struggled last week with penalties and mistakes and didn't do much to reverse that trend last night. The Panthers had eight penalties for 57 yards, including one that negated a first down and another that led to a field goal for Connecticut. Pitt also had six turnovers that contributed to 17 Connecticut points and struggled to convert first downs.

Quick hits

Starting right tackle Jason Pinkston (shoulder) did not start because he missed most of the week of practice due to his injury. With Pinkston out, the Panthers moved right guard Mike McGlynn to right tackle and sophomore Joe Thomas started at right guard. ... Tommie Duhart started at defensive tackle, his first. Also, sophomore Aaron Berry made his first start at cornerback.