Scorned Pitt QB’s Dad Trashes Hometown Program After Bolting For Washington State

Julian Dugger will play his redshirt freshman season at Washington State. The quarterback made the move to Pullman after spending his first year at his hometown program.

Dugger initially signed with Pitt where he’d hoped to be the Panthers‘ next great passer. Unfortunately, he and his family felt disrespected by the coaching staff, which led to the transfer.

Dugger hails from the city of Pittsburgh. He signed with the Panthers as a three-star prospect in the 2024 recruiting class. Pitt was his only P4 offer.

The quarterback jumped at the opportunity to represent his hometown. He enrolled at the university in January of ’24.

Julian Dugger played in one game at Pitt.

That appearance came in the bowl game against Toledo, which the Panthers lost 48-46 in six overtimes.

Dugger did not start the game. He entered the contest in the second half after walk-on freshman David Lynch’s second interception. Pitt trailed 20-12 at the time.

The rookie passer immediately led a touchdown drive in his opening possession to even the score. He’d eventually build a 30-20 lead before allowing the Rockets to get back into the game with a pick six.

The matchup would later go into overtime. The Panthers lost a battle of two-point conversions. Dugger totaled 160 yards and three scores in two quarters of action.

All in all, it was a positive end to his freshman campaign. He was expected to compete with Eli Holstein for the QB1 role in 2025, though it was an uphill climb given his counterpart’s experience and standing.

Holstein would win the spring battle for the starting job. He took the first-team reps during the spring game.

Dugger was outperformed by both Holstein and reserve signal caller Mason Heintschel, who might’ve also passed him on the depth chart.

Rather than stick around for another season, Julian Dugger bolted for Washington State.

The Cougars wanted Dugger more, according to his dad.

The quarterback entered the transfer portal in April. He committed to his new school in May. The social media team posted a highlight of Dugger from fall camp showcasing his talents to those unfamiliar.

slideeee 2️⃣🤫 @JulesDugger02 pic.twitter.com/d5II3L4MZ4

— Washington State Football (@WSUCougarFB) August 4, 2025

Dugger put defenders on skates as he raced to the endzone for a quick score. His dual threat abilities are what make him such an intriguing prospect.

One follower to repost the impressive scamper on social media did so while shading Pat Narduzzi and the Pitt staff.

Based on previous conversations, this account appears to belong to Dugger’s father, Lance. He doesn’t believe the Panthers gave his son the praise he deserved. His new school has.

The Cougars needed QB depth. John Mateer left his starting post in the offseason for a new school. Four other passers on the roster followed suit as a result of conference realignment and an unexpected coaching change.

Julian Dugger hopes to help fill the void under center. At this moment in time, he is not the starter. He is turning heads, though.

Despite the recent school change, Dugger and his family are happier at Washington State. He feels more love on the West Coast than he did in his home city.