PITTSBURGH — Defensive coordinator Randy Bates will retire from coaching following the Panthers’ appearance in the Military Bowl tomorrow, concluding a distinguished coaching career that has spanned more than four decades.

“I want to start by thanking my family: my wife, Tracey, and my three daughters, Samantha, Alexandra and Olivia,” Bates said. “Without their support, patience and love, I never would have been able to make it through all these years. They’ve been my foundation at every stop along the way, and I’m eternally grateful for everything they sacrificed for me.

“I could also go on forever about the many mentors who helped shape me both personally and professionally. I thank each of them for their guidance and generosity over the years. I couldn’t have made it here without them.

“Finally, I want to thank the University of Pittsburgh, my fellow coaches and every player who wore the Pitt Script on his helmet. I am especially grateful for Coach Pat Narduzzi for his trust, leadership and friendship. He gave me the professional opportunity of a lifetime.”

Bates has served as Pitt’s defensive coordinator since 2018. Under his leadership, the Panthers have annually fielded one of the nation’s most aggressive and productive defenses.

Since Bates’ second season with Pitt in 2019, the Panthers have recorded a national-best 299 quarterback sacks, while also ranking among the country’s top rushing defenses multiple times. Bates’ units also proved capable of turning defense into offense, producing an ACC-best 20 defensive touchdowns over the last five seasons.

“Randy Bates is everything you want in a coach, leader and man,” Narduzzi said. “He’s an elite football mind, but more importantly, he’s a tremendous teacher and mentor who made a lasting impact on our players and staff. I’m grateful for everything he’s done for Pitt Football and proud to celebrate him as he closes out this chapter. On behalf of our program, I want to wish him, his wife Tracey, and their beautiful family, nothing but the best.”