Quarterback Eli Holstein left Pitt’s game against Louisville Saturday in the first quarter with an injury.

The Panthers’ first-year starting quarterback, who transferred into the program from Alabama in the offseason, was sacked by Ashton Gillotte for a four-yard loss on first down and remained on the turf.

After leaving the game, he was replaced by backup Nate Yarnell, whom he beat out for the starting job during the team's fall training camp.

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Holstein had been one of college football’s breakout stars in the early portion of the 2024 season, helping lead a high-powered Pitt offense to an undefeated record, the Panthers’ best seven-game start since 1982.

Heading into Saturday’s game at Louisville, the redshirt freshman had completed 61.9% of his passes for 2,174 yards, 17 touchdowns and six interceptions while adding 323 yards and three touchdowns on the ground.

Holstein had missed Pitt’s 24-20 loss to Clemson last Saturday with a head injury he suffered while being hit on an attempted slide in a 24-19 loss to Virginia on November 9.

Here’s what you need to know about Holstein’s injury:

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Eli Holstein injury update

As he was being brought down by Gillotte with his team trailing 3-0 with 5:35 remaining in the first quarter, Holstein’s left leg was caught awkwardly underneath the Louisville defensive lineman.

He was tended to immediately by team medical personnel. He had an air cast place around his left ankle to stabilize his leg before being carted off the field.

Holstein later returned to the Pitt sideline on crutches.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Eli Holstein injury update: Pitt QB carted off field vs Louisville