It’s quiet out there.  Very quiet.  The OC search has gone dark for the weekend, and it’s been talked dead anyway.  It’s an offical visit weekend, and there have been no leaks.  Pitt Basketball played their hearts out yesterday, and that has dominated the Pitt-o-shpere.  And the divisional round of the NFL playoffs is underway.

Regarding the OC search, a couple of new names have surfaced since my last article:  Joe Rudolph and Mark Whipple.  Based on casual observation of this board and Twitter, neither of them appears to be considered a splash hire.  We know what Rudolph brings to the table (and it’s not bad, but not what a lot of people profess to want).   Whipple looks like an also-ran (which, sadly, probably means he has the inside track).

In recruiting news, Aliquippa four-star DB MJ Devonshire is on an offical visit this weekend.  The biggest update to come out of this so far, is that Penn State called Devonshire while he was in Oakland and apparently the call was “great”.  There has been no mention of the Pitt visit on Devonshire’s Twitter (as of yet), but you would assume that since it’s Sunday, the visit is still going on… 

screen shot 2019-01-13 at 6.34.17 amDevonshire is reportedly down to Pitt and Ohio State, but if Penn State worms their way back into the mix and eventually snaggs yet-another-four-star out from under Narduzzi, it will surely elicit a fair amount of impotent rage, at least from Pitt fans.

In NFL News, Aaron Donald had a nice TFL in the Rams Playoff win against the Cowboys yesterday night.  It was much celebrated on the Twitter.

 

 

Pitt fans will also get to watch Avonte Maddox try to defend against Drew Brees and the Saints tonight.  As a lifelong Eagles Fan I hope he is successful.  (For the record I was born in Philly and raised in Eastern PA, and both sides of my family are from Philly, so I’ve earned it.)  Regardless of outcome, he’s had a great season and outperformed expectations.  Heck, we put a couple more like this in the NFL and we might start becoming known as #CornerBackU.  (Attention MJ Devonshire…)

screen shot 2019-01-13 at 6.46.41 am

While we are on the subject of beating expectations, Pitt Alum Tyler Boyd has been nominated for the little-known and awkwardly-named Vizio Top Value Performer Award.

According to the press release:  “The TVP award is given to the NFL player who’s on-field performance most-exceeds the value of their contract and with the season he put together this year”

I’ve listed the nominees belwo.  Based on the production Boyd is probably the least-qualified, but if you want to exercise your University of Pittsburgh Pride, go ahead and vote for him anyway.  I don’t think he will get anything if he wins, but you will be entered to win a shiny new TV (which ostensibly is also a great value if you were to buy it at retail…)

Also, WHY THE HECK WASN’T JAMES CONNER NOMINATED FOR THIS AWARD?  This will undoubtedly go down as one of the most epic snubs in Pittsburgh Football history (I’m joking here).  Not only has Conner outperformed everyone on this list, but he actually saved the Steelers $12 Millon dollars and represents the feel-good football story of the decade (not joking here).  The marketing department at Vizio really needs to do their homework next time…

  • Tyler Boyd, WR, Bengals – 76 receipt, 1028 yds, 7 TD | $787k
  • Chris Carson, RB, Seahawks – 1314 total yds, 9 TD | $550k
  • Kenny Golladay, WR, Lions – 70 receipt, 1063 yds, 5 TD | $586k
  • Phillip Lindsay, RB, Broncos – 1278 total yds, 10 TD | $480k
  • Blake Martinez, ILB Packers – 5 sacks, 91 tackles | $630k
  • James Conner, RB, Steelers – 1470 total yds, 13 total TD, beat cancer, saved team $12 Million dollars (Not Nominated)

Lastly, some housekeeping and odds and ends.  I recieved a couple of texts from posters over the last few weeks, and I’ve been remiss about posting them.  One was from Rick in Columbus aka OhHowIHateOhioState.  It was sent during halftime of the Sun Bowl, and the pic clearly got lost in the Sun Bowl Aftermath.  Looks like the Columbus Pitt Club was representing well!

columbus pitt club
Columbus Pitt Club, Sun Bowl Gamewatch 2018

The other was from one of our favorite raconteurs, Bernie, aka Big B.  Who was playing a round of winter golf, and apparently made quite an impression on someone at the 19th hole.

gamecocksoup
I think he meant “threw”…

I’m sure the subtext was that they were talking football, and this woman expliained that the Clemson recruting staff has a room full of this stuff.  You know, for when they recruit against thier in-state rival.  (Pitt-Cocks fan maybe you can shed some light on this?)  While we are on the subject of unfortunately named college teams, go ahead and take a look at this list.  I’ll let you you pick out your favorites.

At any rate, I’ll always be thankful that we are the Pitt Panthers.  Try to keep the 14 year old comments PG folks, and enjoy the NFL playoffs.

PS – if you have photos from game watches or other football relevant content.  You can reach me via the contact page on this site. I’ll do my best to post it all.

#FlyEaglesFly & Hail to Pitt

Michaelangelo

 

 

Michaelangelo holds a degree in Travel Writing from the University of Pittsburgh. He was a former staff writer for InPittsburgh Newsweekly, and currently resides near Atlanta, Georgia. He has been a Pitt fan since 1997 after he witnessed Pitt upset #22 Miami on Thursday night at Pitt Stadium.

198 thoughts on “Football Bits and Pieces”

  2. Donald has been a twitter darling for much of his NFL career

    I would assume that a Devonshire tweet this evening will say how much he enjoyed his visit at Pitt. These recruits are well schooled on being positive on their twitter accounts towards the schools that are recruiting them.

    Heck, if everyone that tweeted how great their Pitt visits were over the past few years committed here, our FB roster would be loaded with 4 stars …. and our 2019 BB class would be loaded with 4/5 stars centers and power forwards.

    Devonshire takes an official visit next week at Ohio State, then who knows what will happen with PSU. Once again, (for the thousandth time it seems this decade) the odds are Pitt will again be bridesmaids.

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  4. since this is Bits and Pieces …. Pitt wrestling moved to 7 an 0 with a 22-11 win over North Dakota St. And before you scoff, NDSU is ranked 23rd

    Liked by 1 person

  6. we are a wrestling school for men
    a volleyball school for women

    would love to see Pitt add mens lacrosse or hockey. To offset, Pitt could add sports like field hockey and rowing for women.

    I wonder if the Pete could be converted for hockey.

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    1. did u see that womens tennis was dropped? Since joining ACC, its league record was 1 – 76. It only affects 3 scholarships.

      My sister was a non-schollie tennis player at Pitt in late 70s. She then transferred to CMU and became its #1 player (but still no schollie – none were given out)

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      1. saw they dropped tennis and added lacrosse (should be able to play on the soccer field)
        there are probably some other programs like gymnastics and cross country that need to be evaluated
        19 scholie programs is a lot for a revenue challenged school like Pitt
        I think Pitt could be successful in sports like lacrosse and hockey; plenty of regional talent and growing sports at the youth level unlike baseball
        Baseball is one sport that is so tough to be competitive in the Northeast given the weather

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  7. Narduzzi has had some nice late additions in the past. Camp and Watts come to mind, but other than Devonshire who is on the list? Seems very quiet.

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    1. late additions are just that. Most of these guys wait until the last week. Pitt’s only 4-star last year, RB Salahuddin, was the last one to commit.

      speaking of late commits, did you see that PSU’s DE Kevin Givens has declared for the NFL? Givens was an original Pitt commit who stayed committed for almost an entire year. Then Franklin offered the Altoona native a couple days before LOI day, and he immediately flipped

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      1. I remember that and Givens has become an excellent player. Would have Pitts D-line.
        Wasn’t he recruited by Chryst and was one that Narduzzi couldn’t hold on to. There was also another one.

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        1. Yes, however, another way to look at it was that Narduzzi was hired before Christmas but Givens stayed committed until early Feb until PSU offered. And shouldn’t the fact that Altoona is 45 mi SW of Sate College and Givens grew up a PSU fan count?

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          2. In fact I don’t fault any kid that prefers to play in front of 100,000 and have a chance to play in the Rose Bowl or have a chance at a NC.

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  8. Pitt just put new floor into Pete so doubt it could or would make for hockey.

    Better for UPJ to get hockey for Johnstown hockey arena where Slapshot was made.

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  11. If Devonshire goes to PSU that would be a real kick in Big B’s soup mix for us…
    Hopefully Duzz can sign him.
    If anyone has the PSN pay site, do they mention names of the 2 potential transfers?

    Liked by 1 person

    1. anyone who saw Devonshire play in state finals would have readily noticed that he wore a WVU hand warmer during the game. I assume that the relationship there had soured when Holgerson left. Narduzzi did not offer anyone from Aliquippa until late November when Will Gipson immediately flipped. Whether Pitt will luck out with Devonshire remains to be seen but frankly I’m kind of amazed that Pitt is on his final list

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  12. —NO CORNERBACK ALLOWED FEWER YARDS PER SNAP IN COVERAGE IN 2018 THAN AVONTE MADDOX.

    That should be a headline in Pittsburgh, or a banner on the Cathedral… (Course it just about guarantees that Avonte has a terrible “Trubisky” day today.)

    —The “impotent rage” threw me. Then I think I understood; and I see it’s applicability to Pitt fans. Good one.

    —Reading your articles, Michaelangelo, it seems like you’re having some fun keeping the POV going… Another good job with this one.

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

  13. BTW, who the heck keeps track of “yards per snap” surrendered by a Cornerback? Crazy!

    And how in the world does Avonte – who gets picked on every game – lead the league??

    Go Pitt.

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    1. Major, if you watched the Bears game last week, you would have seen Maddox receive nothing but praise in the first half by both announcers …. I assure you I’m not making that up.

      I was down at my sister’s house in Philly at Thanksgiving and had a discussion with a couple Eagles’ fans who thought very highly of Maddox … in fact, they both said that Maddox stabilized the defense when he became a starter,

      Liked by 1 person

  15. Pretty sure I read that the hoopies stopped recruiting Devonshire weeks prior to Holgy leaving…that the db slots are filled?

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  16. I know Whipple on paper looks like an also ran but he would actually be a very good hire if Duzz is set on the pro-style. It’s more along the lines of Canada than Watson. Pre-snap movement. Lot’s of formations. He has a big playbook but an easy to digest one. Chaney and Watson have very complicated pro-style philosophies.

    *** NOTE – I’d much prefer to move away from a pro-style but if we have to go that route, Whipple is definitely worth looking at. There are not many up and coming pro-style OC’s. LOL. So expecting an inspiring hire at OC is a bit of a stretch IMO ***

    Don’t look at his HC record. His team defense killed him. Not something we have to worry about as an OC.

    Here is a good read on him as HC at Massachusetts … https://www.gazettenet.com/Josh-Walfish-The-pros-and-cons-of-Mark-Whipple-21626294

    Pro’s:

    “One of the biggest positives going in Whipple’s favor is his offense, which should once again finish in the top-third nationally in points and yards per game. No one UMass will be able to find on the market will be able to improve much over what the Minutemen are doing already on that side of the ball. Whipple has shown he is an excellent recruiter of offensive talent and has a lot of good young weapons returning next year, so the attack should not have too much of a drop off next year.”

    “Another point in Whipple’s favor is how much his players enjoy playing for him and how well he can read the team. Yes, television cameras often find Whipple upset about something on the sidelines, but that’s the type of passion that makes Whipple popular in the locker room. The players love it that Whipple is so passionate on game days and that he’s going to defend them whenever possible. But Whipple also has a good sense of when to ease off the gas and be more positive with his guys — the Connecticut and Liberty wins being prime examples of that.”

    Another good read about Miami … Literally, the only bright spot in this article is Whipple’s tenure. They don’t spend much time on it because it’s an article trashing Miami offense but Whipple still shined thru (barely) … https://www.stateoftheu.com/2018/10/25/18020808/miami-hurricanes-football-the-story-of-a-failing-offense-and-how-it-got-this-bad-golden-richt-coker

    “The Miami offense was then handed over to Patrick Nix who gave way to Mark Whipple. Nix’s offenses finished 106th and 62nd with quarterbacks like Wright and Kirby Freeman. Freeman was abjectly horrible against NC State in 2007 as he finished the loss throwing one touchdown and three interceptions and was one-for-fourteen passing. Under Mark Whipple the offense improved to 24th overall and 35th overall from 2008-2009 with Jacory Harris at quarterback.”

    His struggles at Miami had to do with Jacoby Harris being a TO machine despite a 50/50 pass-run ratio … https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/fl-xpm-2010-11-04-fl-hyde-randy-shannon-miami-20101104-story.html

    “The Hurricanes, meanwhile, think they have some combination of Ken Dorsey, Steve Walsh and Gino Torretta at quarterback. That’s led to Harris, a junior, having a school-record 35 interceptions in his career.

    That’s where Shannon has to step in. How can a team win turning the ball over like that?

    “We’re running and throwing it about 50-50,” Shannon said.

    That’s true (287 passes to 293 runs). “

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Good intel, Tossing. I am beginning to warm up to the idea of Whipple

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      1. I get why he’s not an inspirational hire but if Pitt is dead-set on a pro-style offense who in CFB is considered an inspiration (or innovative) pro-style OC? Besides Canada? They’re all in the NFL. At the college ranks, with a pro-style demand, you’re going to end up with Canada or a 61 year old fired HC. Lol. Canada is very innovative despite PoD’s smoke n mirrors barbs. Andy Reid is essentially running an HGH version of Canada’s offense in the NFL. Canada is very innovative. Whipple also runs a fun version of the offense. As fun as a pro-style can be, anyways.

        Liked by 1 person

  17. Here I go again:

    I think the shear fact that Canada hasn’t been hired is a good indication that he won’t be. If PITT is waiting for MC to not get a job somewhere else, they are bigger fools than Upitt thinks they are. Does Narduzzi need smacked in the head to see that this guy is a rolling stone and where ever he hangs his hat is is home. Go after Fedora Pat and forget about it. Still would like Yost if not Fedora.

    Too bad that Maddox and Boyd can’t and won’t play in the NFL.. oops wait second…

    Again…. I understand that PITT will make a complete switch back to the retro uniforms next year. The old school uni’s will become the new school uni’s and I also have heard the shade of the blue and gold will be altered to be closer to the early 80’s colors. Still no word on the pant stripes?

    It’s very possible that PITT will get a very early jump on their season next year. Unless they switch out the Ohio game on the 7th they just might be starting a season in August (31st) for the first time in a while. Labor day comes a little early this year, Sept 2nd, and the rumor is the ACC wants to kick off their brand new network with an ACC conference game.

    Exciting times indeed. ho hum…. ike

    Liked by 2 people

  18. Mark – Probably on Canada. I’d bet there is an agreement in place that he’ll only leave for a HC or NFL job moving forward staving off another P5 raid. Just an assumption though.

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    1. Canada did have the best coached unit we’ve seen at Pitt in a long while. He has that going for him.

      Many people know how something is done, or should be done; few people can teach it and get other people to do it at a high level.

      Go Pitt.

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  21. Oh man, i hope we don’t go back to the 80’s color scheme. I like the bright colors of the alt-uniforms now. Recruits will too. That old school gold is some ugly mustard.

    Liked by 1 person

          1. any ‘browning’ of the yellow is not a Pitt color. Pitt’s yellow is gold and not mustard despite what you old timers think. Leave it to Pitt to screw up the new colors and look like WVCC.

            Our blue should be cobalt or royal. Not this Navy crap. Thats the easy color to decide on.

            But many are hung up on wanting to look like a 70’s team. Disco is dead people.

            You need contrast with colors. Colors that compliment. The Rams didnt look too bad last night in their colors.

            Liked by 1 person

            1. The ultra bright uniform colors were not as well received by some players as first thought. I have no proof but I did hear that. What players? Seriously?

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              1. You answered it. Haha. I don’t recall hearing that. The only negative I’ve heard is Xavier not liking the all whites they wore against unc.

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  22. Whether It’s the right thing to do would remain to be seen, but I would view the choice as not thinking small time. I would also hope that a second choice is already interviewed and vetted so that when the NI decision is made, Pitt will have their man and announce quickly.

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  23. LOL TT, Yeah it’s an acquired taste I suppose. I watched PITT win a national championship and go 33-3 while wearing them. They looked pretty good to me.

    Thanks Fran

    I just booked a room for sept 7 through the University of Pittsburgh at the Westin Convention Center hotel. I saved nearly $200 off the standard rate. $169, not bad.. I would jump on that you out of town guys and gals

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  25. Can we stop reading into delays in guys getting hired? Everyone was freaking on the basketball hire delay and Pitt got a great coach.

    There are 100s of candidates out there. Pitt has to put out feelers both through direct and indirect channels. It takes time with, interviews, buyouts, etc.

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  28. The Capel hire was a good one, Watson not so much. It just seems to me if I was an offensive recruit on the fence I’d want to know who the OC was going to be, thus making the hire time sensitive to me.

    Liked by 2 people

  29. Pitt announces its new marketing strategy for a new Offensive Coordinator:
    SO EASY EVEN A CAVEMAN
    CAN DO It!!!!
    (Gorilla Arms Required) – That ones for our old friend UPitt.

    Liked by 5 people

  30. Here is a tweet from Devonshire’s mom. Apparently he along with Will Gipson were at the LeMont on Fri night. Much better than a hot stickee although you don’t have to wear a jacket at the State College Diner.

    Terrie Tipper-Devonshire@CCoterrie
    Jan 11
    This how they treating us @CoachK_Jeter @samluvsmi @1quipcoach @GipsonAlvin @1quipcoach – at LeMont

    of course at Dairyland, they might give you a jacket with a very nice surprise in the innerpocket

    Liked by 1 person

  34. Although I am definitely in favor of a methodical approach to important hires like an OC, I wonder how much it hurts to not have an OC onboard when you are bringing in grad transfers on that side of the ball?

    If I were a TE with only 1 year left, I would sure like to know if the offense is going to use the TE as a 3rd OT, ala Watson, or is it going to be a pass receiving option?

    This is obviously rhetorical . . . . . c’mon HCPN get on the stick and hire someone. How can other programs make head coaching hires in a matter of weeks, but it takes Pitt months to hire a WR coach, let alone an OC. I fear this is lack of planning and attention to detail, by the executive of our football enterprise!!!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. HC’s are hired in a matter of days at other programs – see wvcc.

      OC’s and WR coaches too. See psuX

      Miami’s Manny Diaz was getting heat from the fan base on his timing for the OC – he landed the Alabama offensive assistant. He may even land QB Jalen Hurts with that move…

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      1. The WVU hire took weeks. The new coach stated so in his press conference.

        It can take months as long as it is a good hire. Narduzzi’s job is riding on this one.

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    2. I get Mr. Whipple mixed up with Mr. Hooper.

      Mr. Hooper would be a great name for a BB Coach. He could hire assistants named Ernie and Burt. 😊

      Go Pitt.

      Liked by 1 person

  36. Lamont Wade looking to transfer?
    Didn’t he, along with Miles Sanders, do a dirt dance on the Pitt emblem?

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    2. Ike. not a bad rate. The hotels around the stadium are jacked up until the Steelers announce their schedule then they drop it. Karen and I will be in Sint Maarten the week prior and returning home that day. Not early enough to make it to the game though. Thinking of changing my parking to Red 5 from Glod 1. I hardly used the pass since we stay at the Hyatt place and park there. See you the next game!

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      1. Hey Warren Panther, I start looking for rooms before the Steeler schedule comes out and when or if their schedules don’t conflict with PITT I always cancel and reserve on the northshore. But if the Steelers are playing on the same weekend they want over $600 for one night. Based on principles alone I’m done doing that. I figure I can just pop on the T at Woods Street and hop off at Red 5-A. Hope to see you again next season.

        Speaking of next season, I sure hope PITT gets some better weather for the games and tailgates.

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    2. Duzz definitely has to hire him now. From the out-house D to this!!!

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  40. Now that the Steelers are on the verge of TOTALLY losing their place in the Football World… maybe Heather should make a call and request the Mustard at Heinz be replaced with Old Gold.

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  42. ^^ Thanks wwb. Seems to me that the window for complaining about PITT’s secondary sports and Heather is slowly closing. << Now I’m not claiming that Heather is the one solely responsible but???

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    1. I’m so excited to see the Director Cup standings! 🤔

      NOT!

      Give me excellent FB and BB teams; the rest are like the Pitt debate team to me. I wish them the best, but I’m just not invested.

      But I agree with you ike that Heather has made some good hires. For example, I like the women’s BB coach and his staff, though they inherited a very limited roster and didn’t get to bring in their own recruits yet.

      Go Pitt!

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  43. old gold and navy are just bland…Ram’s non-retros
    their retros look similar to Pitt’s and guess which one is more popular in merchandise sales
    To each his own but at least Pitt’s retros pop on TV, the colors compliment and there is contrast

    whatever colors are picked, Pitt cannot look like this

    Liked by 1 person

  44. Pitt has been slow rolling out the new color scheme for the last year. All the colors on campus are the current alt uniform colors. I doubt the football team has a different color scheme.

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  45. I wonder if any basketball or football recruits will be attending the FSU game at the Pete tomorrow. Lamont Wade would look good in blue and gold. With the large number of coaching changes this off season, there should be some good transfers available out there.

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  46. From PSN – new teammates?

    UPDATE (12:35 PM)-

    **Aliquippa’s Will Gipson and MJ Devonshire on their Pitt Official Visit. Will they be teammates again?

    Liked by 1 person

  47. here is mostly good news for Pitt. Former WVU (and Pitt) DC Tony Gibson expected to be hired as co-DC for NC State. This is why Devonshire is available

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    1. I was hoping he’d go out west somewhere. He’ll still be recruiting at Aliquippa… And apparently he’s a smooth talker.

      Go Pitt.

      Liked by 1 person

  48. VoR – I’m not sure Wade would be welcome. Very immature with the rivalry. Rubbed many the wrong way. To the point Duzz threw shade before the PSU game.

    Liked by 2 people

  51. Read on PSN that visiting TE Blake said he’d prefer to play defense. If his head and heart aren’t into playing TE, I’d pass on him – we already have a ton of DEs…

    Give the ship to the best TE or OLineman you can find…

    Go Pitt.

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  53. Already missing watching football….. too bad there wasn’t any games on the TV today to watch.

    Question? If Wade transfers to PITT, (I don’t want him) is he a good pick up since he was considered a 5* football player in some circles as a senior in high school? or he doesn’t count as a recruit despite getting a good bit of playing time at psu his first two years? I ask… I’m old and confused…

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    1. Well if he has a five star mouth and a two star hind-end we don’t want him. But if he can play…

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  55. Current Pitt retro colors are pretty much the same as the Golden State Warriors.
    They sell a ridiculous amount of merchandise so the colors sell.
    Many Pitt fans have spent money on the current retro colors, idiotic if Pitt changes it drastically again.

    Liked by 1 person

  56. Tossing, where Wade is concerned, I’m a believer in redemption. 😊 it certainly seems like a large number of players are bailing from Pedo, including announcing for the draft. Are the natives getting restless up at crappy valley?

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    1. they are indeed restless due to Nits’ inability to win important close games under Franklin, and of course when that happens, the HC gets shredded on key play calls/decisions. McSorely is done, having won the most games for a PSU QB in history … and Nit Nation was so sure he would bring them to the promised land. In fairness, they did have a handful of key injuries in the 2nd half of this past season but still they underachieved

      But he is still recruiting well and bring in 4/5 stars, which may be some of the cause for the transfers, and the amount of early departures may be indicative of just how much talent there is at Happy Valley.

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    3. VoR – I don’t disagree. I’d take him in a heartbeat. Duzz preaches family so much that Wade’s acting out may not go over as well internally is all. I’d hope the staff can put aside the past too. That was just a general comment.

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  57. Just saw on Pitt Fan Fanatics that the player who tripped Xavier Johnson was HS teammates w Grayson Allen. Their coach really taught them the importance of sportsmanship.

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  59. Here are a couple of tweets from back in Dec covering two topics discussed above

    LaMont Wade@Goony_38 9_Dec_2018
    God I know you looking out for me through the darkness..

    Brian Baldinger@BaldyNFL 18_Dec_2018
    .@eagles @2live_AM looked like the best #eagle CB I have seen all year. Is there that much difference between Maddox and Denzel Ward? Plays much bigger than his size. #BaldysBreakdowns

    On the 1st tweet, I apologize if it pertained to a personal issue (though I’m not aware of one}
    On the 2nd tweet, this is the life of a cornerback … the most exposed position in FB except for QB maybe

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  60. one last tweet (maybe) … from Devonshire’s mom

    Terrie Tipper-Devonshire@CCoterrie
    First I want to Thank our Creator for Blessing My family Devonshire/Jeter for giving us the Awesome Experience this Weekend on @Mjdevonshirejr First Official visit…. #PITT you set the Bar High …

    (the trouble I guess is that OSU has means to set the bar much higher this weekend)

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  61. While MJ is at OSU this weekend he might want to check out their sideline bench. That’s where he will be spending much of his time.

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  62. Great if we get Devonshire especially to keep the Alliquippa and Beaver Valley pipeline alive, but I am more interested in what Senior Transfer O-linemen Narduzzi can get. A guy or two as productive as Millin would certainly help our passing game.

    I don’t care if Wade dissed Pitt, getting him at Pitt helps depth and local relationships. Hate to see him at WV.

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  63. Could someone please tell me what colors are Pitt’s uniforms gonna be. I think it hurts our branding when we change shades every few years.

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  68. Big ACC game tonight on ESPNU that can really move us up in the ACC standings maybe even get us ranked.

    Hard to believe.

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  69. A problem from a year ago was that as the losses kept piling up Stallings could not keep the confidence and motivation up with the players and the season fell apart rapidly (not to mention he sucked as a coach). While I know that this is a different year with a great coach and mostly new players, any young team could easily fall into this trap, especially with the run of good teams at the beginning of ACC play that will produce losses. I’m more worried over a collapse than anything else.

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  70. I got all excited about the guest writer article….

    The number one reason PITT lost 7 games and ended with a 500 record???? They won the coastal division. The Stanford debacle #2 and UNC #2b. I put UNC down the list simply because that was an earlier game. Which brings me back to Narduzzi. He needs to get the team off to a better start next year. This year was the no excuse year and HCPN dodged that by winning the division but lagged in other areas. I guess this next year will be a do over of the NO excuse year?

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    1. Well, I say they crapped the bed against Miami, nc and Stanford. Others will say, not incorrectly that we played nd, cfu, psu and Clemson. I guess that’s be truth lies someplace in between.

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  73. I’m not sure Heather will let this be a poor choice NRS? and yes, that’s me pretending I know how involved or not involved Heather is. Still hoping she’s due to go on vacation soon. Maybe Disney World again?

    Liked by 1 person

  74. a current PSN article would make you think the 2 top candidates for the Pitt OC are Rudolph and Canada … and an announcement will be coming soon. (maybe the loser of the NIU job will end up here?}

    I am still confused why Rudolph would come here … but if so, he has the reputation of a good reporter. Just not sure he can improve the pass game .. but who knows?

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  75. PSN with a meaningful OC update today…if it’s true. Says both Rudolph and Canada are in the running for NIU HC. If that’s true and you read between the lines on this paragraph, then you can infer that one of the two was Pat’s choice:

    “Late last week, one source told PSN that Pitt was nearing an end to its search and hoped to have a press conference this week, perhaps as soon as Tuesday. But the interest of two of Pitt’s primary options in the NIU job may slow the process back down.”

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  76. Apparently, the hunt is over. The OC will be either Rudolph or Canada. Narduzzi must have a really small circle of contacts and candidates to choose from. He better be prepared if Canada takes the NIU job and Rudolph says no to Pitt.

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  78. From April of last year….

    Rudolph, entering his fourth season as UW’s offensive coordinator/line coach, is to be paid a total of $775,000 next season. That includes a base salary of $304,800, another $420,000 from the UW Foundation and a retention bonus of $50,000.

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    1. So a pay raise, and he gets to call plays and come back to da burgh.

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  80. I’m hoping its not Rudolph since I really don’t believe he was the one calling plays at any place he had the title of OC. And by the way Wisconsin runs the same offense Pitt has run the past several years with better looking “Hogs” on the Oline. A pretty dull hiring IMO if that ends up the case.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. If he gets hired I’ll do a full rundown on him. But I will say this: as pedestrian as the hire may seem, he addresses two of Pitt’s biggest weaknesses. 1. He’s the current whisky o line coach. He will develop our guys and recruit better ones. 2. I think he’s got more talent to work with at qb at Pitt. He coached hornibrook to 27 td’s I think. If we tree for 20 td’s this year we’d have won 9 games.

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      1. I don’t think Paul Chryst was twiddling his thumbs while Joe R. coached up the Wisky offense. I too am skeptical of JR until I see him do something separate from PC.

        Go Pitt!

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  81. Some disturbing news IMO on the Devonshire recruiting process this afternoon from PSN. It would appear the flood gates have opened up and the number of schools chasing after him has sky rocketed the past few days.

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    1. PSN says it’s because they may not have a schollie. Although that could be a face-saving move by OSU

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  83. RJ Sepich, a Pitt media guy, has posted some interesting info about Pitt’s defense last season. According to him:

    In Pitt’s last six games, all against bowl-eligible teams, Pitt allowed 323 yards per game.

    Over a full season, that rate would put Pitt 18th in the nation and behind only Clemson and Miami in the ACC.

    Interesting…🤔

    Go Pitt.

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      1. Yes – I think Tossing said that if we want to stay in a pro-style offense, then Mr. Whipple should be the choice…

        Hats off to Tossing!

        Go Pitt.

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  87. More from Sepich — maybe this helped convince Mr. Whipple to sign on…😊

    Pitt gave up 372 yards to Syracuse — only ND and Clemson allowed fewer.

    Pitt gave up 344 to ND — only Clemson and Mich allowed fewer.

    Pitt gave up 249 to UVA — only Miami allowed fewer.

    Pitt gave up 285 to WF — only Clemson allowed fewer.

    Pitt gave up 419 to Clemson — only Texas A&M allowed fewer.

    Stats like these never tell the whole story, but some food for thought, especially when we didn’t lose any big play makers…

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I’ll pile on. There is a tweet going around that Umass scored 27 on UGA this year. That’s more than anybody else except ‘Bama and Texas who scored 28. Not a sexy hire but it’s definitely growing on me

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  88. Based on TT’s reporting I believe Mr. Whipple will be a positive contributor to Pitt’s offense going forward. The only problem in saying that I think 3/4’s of the posters to the POV would be a positive contributor for the Pitt offense versus what Watson’s contributed.

    Liked by 2 people

  91. One can never say how long anyone will remain as an OC at any school. But with Whipple’s age(61) he just might be content with staying as an OC for the remainder of his working days and not be looking for that next head coach opening. Now’s here hoping that he has the success at Pitt so that others will come calling in subsequent years.

    Liked by 1 person

  93. Jurassic coach and system. Just kidding. LOL

    I am open minded about all coaches. Good luck Mr. Whipple. Develop us Pitt fans a great QB (don’t care which one) and passing game.

    Liked by 1 person

  94. https://sports.yahoo.com/umass-football-coach-mark-whipple-inexplicably-uses-rape-describe-uncalled-foul-224028850.html

    this may come up in our PC world, but I see it as a good hire as if Pitt wasnt ‘raped’ this year by the refs in several games
    He turned passing around at UMass
    Helped develop a very young Big Ben
    Has experience in the NFL and college ranks
    Is a well respected O coach
    And he can teach Narduzzi a thing or two given his experience. Plus he’s not going to jump ship.

    Liked by 1 person

  95. Looks like he was making about 500K as head coach at U Mass. The funny thing is despite U Mass having some dismal results the 3 years prior to this season Whipple was given a contract extension after the 2017 season. Keeping his focus on Offense at Pitt(a 2 for 1 purchase OC and QB coach) and the handling of our young QB’s Pickett, Betti and Beville gives us chance to put our O and D on an equal footing going forward.

    Liked by 1 person

  96. Idk about this guy, but I’m glad narduzzi didn’t wait until Canada or whoever finally made up their mind. Either you want to come here or you don’t.

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  97. He has NFL cred and is very knowledgeable about passing.

    But I just can’t wrap my hands around the fact that Mr Whipple will be Genghis Khan’s boss.

    Liked by 1 person

  98. Whipple is a safe pick by HCPN, as he will be too old to be considered as a HC at most schools in 2-3 years, and not a threat at Pitt. As long as Beville is onboard, that is the most important thing, as I doubt Patti has the arm and KP’s limitations are obvious and numerous.

    One thing I think will not be an issue is Whipple letting Nardog stick his nose in offensive kitchen. Hopefully this works out as well as the 1st year worked on the defensive side with the hire of Bates, since it seemed like Pitt’s D was trending up at the end. This was the case despite the loss of KCamp, with Twyman/Watts holding their own.

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  99. Also based on his handling of the QB’s in most all his stops would hope Whipple might have some valuable input for Narduzzi in the hiring of our new WRers coach.

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  100. Now find the WR coach that can teach our guys separate, and most importantly come back to the ball when the QB is scrambling, instead of quitting on their routes.

    The next time I hear how good Tim Salem is as a recruiter, it needs to be explained how there isn’t a legitimate TE on the entire 85 man roster. Inexcusable.

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  101. Whipple seems like a good hire. He was in my top 3 of all the potential named candidates

    Rudolph wants to be a HC. His problem is that for the last 10 years he has tied his career to Wisconsin or a Wisconsin guy (Chyrst). The knock is that he needs to broaden his horizon.

    Canada also wants to be a HC.

    Ike favorite (Yost) moved with the Utah State HC who took the Tx. Tech open HC position. In fact according to Football Scoops, it looks like he took the entire Utah State coaching staff with him.

    BigB (Bernie) is the “COCK of the talk”. In his exuberant style, Bernie was beguiling his partners & the entire 19’th hole crowd with his stories. His reward – the Cock soup mix. Bernie would rather had his bar bill forgiven.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. BTW – the long national nightmare of what to call the University of South Carolina has been resolved. As you are probably not aware of & probably don’t’ care, The University has tried to brand themselves as USC, Carolina & gameCOCKS. The problem – USC is southern Cal. – Carolina is North Carolina and of course gamecocks when shortened to its diminutive make 13 year olds snicker.

      We are now UofSC.

      Liked by 1 person

  102. toilet paper streamers tonite at the Pete in honor of the ‘Mr. Whipple’ hiring
    Oakland Zoo – get on it

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  107. well, this tweet starts out well

    Adam Breneman@AdamBreneman81
    34ml
    Absolute homerun hire by @CoachDuzzPittFB! Get ready for some fun offense Pitt fans! Hope they have a good tight end…

    Liked by 2 people

  108. This is a terrible hire. I think he’s older than me 75 or so? His rush yards ranked #102. If anyone thinks he’ll just keep all the run plays and install his pass game, I have some land in lower Florida to sell you. This is a disaster waiting to happen. Mark my word, this will be PNs demise. I can’t believe ADHL even agreed to this. He runs a 1960 – 70 offense. Wouldn’t be surprised to see Beville on the move.
    SOP

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    1. hes 61
      knows all about the passing game
      and whispered in Big Bens ear…sweet nothings
      What is there not to like?

      The best back for UMass used to be a bartender in Rochester serving Genny Light
      Pitt has talented backs

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  109. UMass had All American WR’s and a TE
    Does Pitt have a TE?

    Whipple will be a good fit
    The ACC is a passing conference
    Pitt is passing challenged

    Whipple cant resist squeezing and he’ll get the most out of this offense

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    1. TX — in response to your way earlier post, I talked to a friend who is very connected with everything hockey around Pittsburgh. He said Pitt Hockey is in the process of moving to Division 1, and there is a new rink in the works in the Shadyside area. They have been very successful as a club program, so hope it continues as a scholarship program. We need an investor like the Pedo’s got with Pegula. They already have the best uniforms in the country: https://twitter.com/d1pitthockey

      Liked by 1 person

      1. plenty of regional talent
        the best market for the US NHL bar none (sorry Buffalo)
        Love the unis
        Pitt could easily become a hockey school…and I’d be fine with that as long as football is priority. Wheres my damn OCS Heather?
        We’ve already become a wrestling and volleyball school
        Hope the B-ball team at least puts up a good fight tonite

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  112. The hire does check the biggest box since Whipple is an accomplished, veteran OC / QB coach which is exactly what is needed. But the smaller boxes about youth and recruiting are unchecked.

    we’ll just have to wait and see

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  113. The OC hire is OK and I hope he does well. Glad they stuck with a guy with pro-style background. One can still run RPO plays out of it with a guy like Pickett introduce some variety.

    I think HCPN is correct when he state’s that it creates a mismatch for us vs ACC defenses set up for the spread.

    All we need are “big palookas” up front to make it go. Get to work on that Borbs!

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  114. I’ll tell you what attracts recruits…winning. We just watched an entire season where we saw zero improvement at the QB position and a grade school level passing game. Now we hire an OC who will reverse that trend and we are worried about his age.

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  115. Good hire by Coach Narduzzi. This is a great move for the QB room. I still think KP can be a good college QB and OC Whipple is going to foster that out of him. I’m sure his hire will ignite some interest from TEs looking for a landing place.

    Liked by 1 person

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