Video: Pitt running back James Conner nearly records sack against Virginia

In Pitt's 14-point win over Virginia on Saturday, one of the moves that had everyone talking was the insertion of running back James Conner into the Panthers' defense. The team was a little banged up, missing defensive end Ejuan Price for part of the game. And needing a pass rush to help limit the Cavaliers' passing game, Conner got his shot.

And not only did Conner get into the game on defense, but he nearly pulled off a sack in his only snap. Included was an unreal spin move and a great tackle of the quarterback just after he released the ball:

Things @JamesConner_ can do for @Pitt_FB:

✔️ Play RB & DE
✔️ spin moves
✔️ pressure the QB
✔️ everything#ConnerStrong pic.twitter.com/xF6DnW9E4a

— ACC Digital Network (@theACCDN) October 15, 2016

There has been a lot of talk about Conner getting into the game defensively for a while now, but this is the first time it's materialized since he was used briefly on defense in the Bowling Green game a few years ago. (Edit: Jerry DiPaola of the Trib says he played one snap in 2014).

I'm not a fan of using Conner all the time on the defensive line, obviously, but throwing him out there for a few plays a game to help guys stay fresh is fine by me. He's clearly talented enough to cause disruptions from time to time.

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