220 thoughts on “Syde Swiped”

  1. in basketball, you ether play the money game or you dont
    Pitt does not especially with an AD who has a Compliance background
    not sure how Pitt will land any 4 stars (top 100 players)

    and even if Pitt wanted to play, it doesnt have the boosters because Pitt disbanded the Golden Panthers
    I dont think there is any easy fix

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  2. TX nailed it. Pitt doesn’t pay to play. Vuk has some good tweets on it. The last few months have been very disheartening with how rampant the cheating actually is. It’s no longer speculation. It’s reality. and the NCAA can do nothing about it. Just ask Will Wade and Sean Miller.

    Liked by 1 person

  3. To whiff on so many bigs is puzzling, and that was after all the talk of bigs wanting to play with the X-Man. Not even bringing in grad transfers for a season also has me stumped.

    How does Capel sell what will be a four-year losing program in the all important 2020 class?

    Never during the season did I think Brown would be the only post player and Toney would have to play the four, again, in 2019-20.

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      1. Gallagher doesn’t want that, the BoT won’t allow it and I read fans don’t want cheating since it will soil their respective degree. What does Pitt do?

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    2. Brown is not the only post player. Coulibaly is a post player, and frankly is a better rebounding candidate than either Brown or Kene. And for that matter, though I’m not convinced of his readiness, Champagnie is probably as good or better a 4 candidate than Toney (Champ. listed recently at 6’7″ and 6’8″).

      That said they need to find another rebounder before the season starts.

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  4. Well, good luck to Mr Khadim Sy. We all have to put bread on the table and I wish you great luck. One for you Sy

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  5. whats Heather’s plan then?

    Capel has a legitimate recruiting constraint

    Still trying to figure out what constraints Narduzzi has although I would argue that 30k yellow seats is a reason but then he doesnt think its an issue.

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    1. TX – Much more money involved with football. You need even need more on that side of the house. Basketball is one and done. Lump sum of money. Football is cars and houses and cash. NCAA is at a crossroads. It’s powerless. Belein just left the sport in disgust. Penn State exposed how little power the NCAA actually has by fighting and winning sanctions rulings. Created a wild wild west.

      Liked by 1 person

  6. no use crying over spilled milk .. I didn’t think it was going to happen anyway. Meanwhile ..

    Neil Stratton@InsideTheLeague

    Multiple sources tell us #Dolphins pro scout Max Gruder is headed to the #Eagles, where he’ll serve in an undisclosed pro scouting role. @Mgruder55 had been w/@MiamiDolphins since ’13. Also played briefly for #Falcons & in college for @Pitt_FB.

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  7. But Pitt isnt competing for high end 4 and 5 stars in football. and it really only needs 50% of the class rated 5.7 and above. Pitt doesnt need to pay for those players. Only the QB can really take over a football game and thats only when he’s on the field.

    basketball its about that point guard. whats the going rate for a top 100 PG these days?

    Pitt will never play the game. Not with Miss Heather as AD and not with Gallagher in charge. Pitt has a trophy case of Compliance trophies and medals from the NCAA.

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  8. Pitt refused to pay, Miss St paid, end of story. Street agents dominate AAU basketball and they are gangsters and slave owners. In the end Capel had no chance. I’m disgusted!

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  11. Somehow — it’s Narduzzi’s fault!

    (I’d send the coaches to Europe and Africa in search of a big…)

    BTW, the women’s team is bringing in a very promising looking Greek/Nigerian post player from the Greek National Team…

    Go Pitt.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Pitt probably should look to Europe in all seriousness

      Its an international sport

      Pitt soccer has been doing it. Landed a top 10 and top 15 class for 2 years running. And got a player drafted by MLS.

      The story I heard was that Narduzzi was the money gopher in the deal but took the money to pay for a 2 star in Georgia with offers from Elon and Holy Cross

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  12. I’ve been detailing the money game for many years and explained the AAU handler and sports apparel company scheme in detail. Have a very close acquaintance at P5 school who wasn’t allowed to play the game by AD. He is now unemployed. Too many empty seats and too little 4 and 5 stars.

    Yet many on here don’t want to do it. Don’t be disgusted because we lose recruits. Be disgusted that your athletic department follows unenforced and unenforceable rules. The NCAA didn’t bring down sean miller, the fbi did. The ncaa has no jurisdiction over the money handler aau coaches.

    Michael Michael, i don’t think it is whining, but frustration. I ain’t no eeyore! This is all easily fixable.

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    1. In this instance I support the whining, but thanks

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  13. It’s obvious that cheating goes on in bball recruiting. That said, is EVERY big getting paid? I find this somewhat hard to believe. If it’s true, then Capel certainly knew about it before he signed on with Pitt and he also knew he wouldn’t be allowed to play in that sandbox at Pitt. Either Capel took the Pitt job knowing that virtually everyone else is cheating and he couldn’t but he ignored this issue or maybe cheating occurs but it’s not as rampant as is being stated.

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  14. scottsvalleypanther – When the market demands it. He had 3 teams competing for his services … one being an SEC school that had no business being in the conversation. It’s just speculation but you can connect the dots.

    This latest scandal basically opened up the floodgates. The NCAA cannot enforce it.

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  15. That SEC school (Ole Miss) made the tourney and has a way better coach than Capel and had a winning record. You guys are funny. Quit looking at it like Pitt is good in Hoops. Capel is a #2 man. Always was and always will be. Ask OU and Coach K. Everyone here gives Capel a pass. His recruiting is terrible like Narduzzi’s and his participation trophy no one outside of Blawnox cares about.

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  16. Ole Miss has two signed recruits for 2019 that are 6’9” 225lbs and 6’10” 230lbs – both 3*’s, besides snagging Sy last night.

    The Rebels also have three other BB recruits in this class that are smaller, but all 4*’s.

    Reporting from inside a US manufacturing facility early on a Tuesday morning while enjoying my first cup of coffee.

    Enjoy your day –

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  19. SOS…Always the bridesmaid or the ugly sister… never the bride or Cinderella…..The End

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  22. in college FB, any payments to players are usually done by boosters, who are well-trained to work independently from the coaches. They may meet with prospects on UNofficial visits to campus and/or they may live in the general area as the prospect.

    as we all know, college BB has become a cesspool with handlers / street agents getting involved with kids as early as 7th or 8th grade. In large cities, all of the really good prospects are steered to Catholic schools. magnet schools, prep schools, etc and many of the college coaches are in contact with these handlers because that is the way the game is played. And of course, poor, urban kids are more susceptible to payoffs.

    In both sports, the large schools recruit themselves (large meaning reputation in the case of Duke, UNC, etc), Otherwise, you either ‘play the game’ or you build your programs based mostly on 3-stars and hope for the best

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  23. from the PG’s Craig Myers

    Jeff Capel put together Pitt’s best recruiting class in five years, getting two top-100 players and a future all-ACC freshman honoree in six weeks. He has also missed on a good number of prospects to schools that aren’t exactly overwhelming competitors. Both things can be true.

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  24. BTW, ‘The Big Sleep’ with Bogart as Philip Marlowe is on TCM this afternoon. Movies are a great escape for fans of schools who don’t recruit well

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  26. Expectations certainly rose after last year’s success but rebuilding Pitt BBall won’t be an overnight job. No doubt the near misses are frustrating, but as we all know recruiting to Pitt is no cake walk. Jamie’s best big men were a local kid who surprised everyone and a Kiwi that he had a special relationship with along with a number of projects that were serviceable as seniors. The overnight fix we all hoped for is not going to happen.

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  27. I don’t like to watch movies in the afternoon, it reminds me too much of how lazy I’ve become. 🙂

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  28. Weather still bad, glad us golfers have the PGA this week to take our minds off things. That and binge watching Netflix.

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    1. Schitt’s Creek is light hearted Netflix series that always puts a smile on my face. Reminiscent of all of the movies that Eugene Levy and Catherine O’Hara has been in together …. ‘Best in Show’, “Waiting for Guffman’, ‘The Mighty Wind’, etc

      The new series ‘Dead to Me’ is pretty good.

      GC, any suggestions for movies or series to watch?

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      1. wwb, I have weird taste and mostly like mysteries and watch UK, Australian and New Zealand stuff. Love the accents. Some I have to watch with subtitles even though it is English. Speaking of subtitles, there is a Scandinavian version of the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series, that you can get from the County Library system.

        I have Netflix, Amazon and Acorn so here is a list from them. Remember I have been retired over six years.

        Currently watching Westside, Australian TV series about a bunch of career criminals.

        Some favorites:

        Bosch, Read the books too
        Doc Martin, maybe my favorite
        Republic of Doyle
        Rake, narcissistic Australian lawyer very funny
        Crownies/Janet King more Australian lawyers
        Murdoch Mysteries
        Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries
        Death in Paradise
        Jack Irish
        The Heart Guy
        Hamish MacBeth
        Foyles War BBC
        George Gently BBC
        The Brokenwood Mysteries
        Midsomer Murders- long running British tv series

        After you watch the first couple in a series you will either get hooked or you won’t

        I have also read over 600 books since retiring. Mostly mysteries.

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          1. Thanks GC, I have been watching Doc Martin for several years now on . But haven’t heard of most of the others you listed. Have to look into these.

            I saw the original Girl with the Dragon Tattoo movie … every bit as good and probably better than the American version. Didn’t know there was a series. Also, I assume you saw the movie ‘Lion’ ,,, both Indian and Australian accents

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  29. I record them Ike…watch when I can.
    Gordon, I was thinking the same thing. 40 degrees this morning…and of course, rain.

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  31. I know a lot of people rumored $$$ to be the issue with Sy, and though that may well be, I think there’s another theory floating around that makes more sense to me: maybe Ole Miss is simply a better fit for Sy based on the type of player he is? Keep in mind that this is a kid reportedly around the level of Brown (not exactly a program changer), who has had off-court issues in the recent past, and who would have been counted on to strictly play Center at Pitt, including a strong emphasis on defense and rebounding, going up against ACC level centers. At Ole Miss, he will be supported by a few players (in the same class alone!) who are his size, allowing him to be the type of player he wants to be (do some floating around outside, take more outside shots, etc.) and definitely not be counted on as much to shoulder defensively/rebounding duties. Again, given his reported style and past history, maybe he made the right choice for him? Not everybody is up to the task at hand given Pitt’s situation. We need a guy with toughness, willing to take on the task shouldering playing Center, largely solo, in the ACC. This is the reality we are trying to climb out of (a hole). It takes the right kind of character/ethic, and there may not be a quality guy left in the class 2019 that will fit that bill.

    Liked by 2 people

  32. It’s best if you don’t read the news or the fbi reports about college athletics. I think the majority of the comments are not about Sy the buy, but rather the state of college basketball generally and what it takes to compete for athlete students. He was beyond excited (i.e. rich!!!) to go to ole miss. I think it was the academics.

    Let’s see, bruce pearl has no history of violations, yet mysteriously turns around Auburn, lickity split. Calipari at Kentucky, no issues there, or with cal, ever…..$ec $ec…..It’s all about the fit as in how many benjamins can fit in their pockets.Good grief!

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    1. There’s no doubt the ncaa is a cesspool, but players who think they can play at the next level need to also consider where they will flourish (look good), and being exposed against high level ACC centers, out on an island, is not the best long term career move, unless you’re really up to the task.

      As far as I’m concerned, they should just go ahead and pay the players if they’re not going to enforce the laws. We don’t even need to speculate/gossip about Calipari or Pearl when we have clear evidence regarding Miller & Wade, and still nothing is done, either by the law, or by the “educational institutions” themselves.

      Liked by 1 person

  33. If Sy was a Narduzzi recruit everyone would rip on him for being unstable because he has bounced around. LOL.

    Until Capel gets to a winning record, recruiting is going to be tough. He can say things are turning around but there is no proof yet.

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  34. Well, Daenerys Stormborn, Dany, Khaleesi, Mhysa, The Silver Queen, Silver Lady, Dragonmother, The Dragon Queen, The Queen Across the Water, The Princess that was Promised would have landed this kid…or burnt down his whole city.

    BTW – 500 Mothers in the US named their daughters Khaleesi last year… wondering if they regret that now.

    Liked by 1 person

  35. Let me get this straight Narduzzi can do no right for FB but Capel is our savior in BB. In BB you have to pay up to get the talent but does that mean you don’t have to pay up to get the FB talent? So is Narduzzi going to be given a pass by his many POV detractors because Pitt also doesn’t pay up to sign our FB recruits?

    Liked by 1 person

    1. What???

      We should give Narduzzi a pass for NOT cheating ?!

      This is the most disappointing thought I’ve read on here for a long time.

      Are wins truly that important?

      My Lord, please tell me this is a joke post.

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  36. Narduzzi doesnt recruit top 500 players
    Thats the equivalent of top 100 basketball players

    Many on here believed that Chryst and Narduzzi could recruit 3 stars and coach them up. Its easier said than done. He needs higher quality recruits. And in football like basketball, sometimes you need to pay for them. So if Pitt is competing against a school with boosters who play the game, Pitt will most likely lose the recruit.

    But Pitt isnt going up against Penn State and Clemson for recruits. And they dont have to. Shouldnt be too difficult to compete every year for a Coastal title or at least become bowl eligible.

    Capel is going after elite talent that is coveted by many top 20 programs. And many of those programs play the $ game.

    Some on here had reservations about a lady with a Compliance background getting the AD gig. Elections have consequences.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I expect a new approach from Capel in the very near future. Just like PN who is focused on where the majority of 3-stars are (a strategy used by both Harris and Wanny, especially when Partridge was on the staff), I see Capel going after more and more NYC/NJ kids … a strategy that served JD well. There is plenty of talent in that area, and those kids probably prefer an urban environment.

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    2. Narduzzi most definitely recruits top 500 players but rarely gets one. I believe most of the 4 stars would be considered top 500 players. Capel has recruited and lost quite a few BB players not considered top 100 players. Quite frankly I think he lucked out last year with the X-man and i don’t this incoming class will have anyone equal to X-man or McGowens. And he still hasn’t shown me anything special with his bench coaching. Is he a better coach than Stallings? I think yes but that’s not saying much IMO. The jury is still out on Capel as it is on Narduzzi.

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      1. Narduzzi offers a bunch of 4 stars. We see what that gets him. He’s mass mailing and hoping he gets lucky.

        Narduzzi’s bread and butter is that middle of the road 3 star without many P-5 offers.

        That approach is fine for a 28-24 record

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  37. I think you folks have Sy’s commitment to the Rebs all wrong….He went there for the education and earn an Ole Miss degree…probably had a program there that caught his eye…Hotty Toddy, Ya’ll…The South Shall Rise Again !!!!!

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    1. Lmao! As a fellow transplanted Yankee this is pure gold.

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  38. @jrn – football is a little different due to the numbers and also the feeder system. There is no football aau. Football still has its slimy side, but not as bad. They have handlers too, but mainly family members and parents getting better jobs, and cash (see cam newton, etc).

    Still difficult for Narduzzi and here is why. All P5 members are permitted by regulation to pay each player a “stipend” each month. The stipend is based off of the total cost of attendance to a particular school. The SEC executives got in front of this and raised the total cost of attendance so high that they increased the stipend for each player significantly. That, in and of itself, is enough to get talent into the sec.

    This is where an excellent AD would have gotten out in front of it, convinced other AD’s in the conference that they need to do more and hammered it home. It’s like work. All else being equal, go where they pay the most!

    On narduzzi and moreso on capel. In football, we average 20 recruits per year with 10 assistant coaches and another 10 assistant to the assistants. What is our return on investment per coach? What do they do in the offseason? BBall even crazier. Average recruiting class size is 3-4 players. We have 4 coaches and a bunch of assistants for the assistants. The ratio of recruit to coach is really interesting and based on that, we should get better bball players than fball players.

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  39. Excellent points Huff the Third I agree except the one about you know, an AD getting out in front. Especially if you are referring to Heather, she doesn’t have any say so or power in the ACC. Swofford runs that conference like a dictator and they gonna let a carpetbagger suggest bupkis.

    I thought we mostly agreed that PITT football played a ridiculous OOC scheduled last year? Now that I do blame on the AD, just not so much the current one.

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  41. Any way you look at it, losing out on Khadim Sy is a SETBACK.

    As I’ve pounded home, history shows as a Head Coach, Capel ONLY wins when he has the BEST talent on the floor.

    Getting a B or B+ recruiting class ain’t goin’ to do it. He needs to maintain A’s. And that means winning the head-to-head recruiting battles… ESPECIALLY when you’re going up against basketball powerhouses like Ole Miss and Eastern Carolina.

    But hopefully this is really just a setback and nothing more.

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    1. The kid is from Florida, VA Tech was probably too cold for him. If anyone from the south visits Pittsburgh today, they are never coming back. Hasn’t got out of the 40’s yet.

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  43. The reason this is so difficult given the depths to which Pitt had reached is the desire of these big men to be on a team that assures an NCAA appearance. Other elements in this case like familiarity with coaches and players overrode the attraction to Pitt.

    I think we are a season away and the coaching and present recruits will provide the level of improvement to make the 2020 class exceptional. I don’t think the optimism is unreasonable.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. What about the failure to add a legit power forward so Toney can play the three? Capel even said during the season that is Toney’s natural spot and he has to play there again next season.

      I never thought after Capel landed the three to-be sophomores so late he would then struggle to bring in some front court help in a class that he had much more time to recruit. I thought at worst a JuCo power forward would be added to pair with Brown.

      The roster won’t even be filled out with grad transfers as the staff never appeared interested in that path despite reading those guys be knocking down the door to play with the X-Man.

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  45. weird, couldn’t “like” prior to doing the post above on this new cpu. I’m not a tech genius, but not crippled either but that makes no sense.

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  47. For Pitt basketball, it has to play every team at least once in the toughest basketball conference. Pitt football only has to find 6 wins to go bowling and doesnt have to go up against Clemson and FSU every year. So basketball has pretty much got to go .600 in ACC play to stand a chance at something more than the NIT. Pitt football on the other hand can go 3-5 in the ACC and still have a good chance at getting to a bowl in most years.

    Thats why recruiting for basketball is far more important than football. Thats why these failures concern me.

    Pitt football only needs about four 4 stars each year and they will be fine (if competing for the Coastal title is your goal). Thats out of 20 recruits. Basketball needs 3 out of 4 recruits to be elite (top 100) to be competitive.

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    1. And yet in three out of four years, narduzzi has gone 6-2 in the ACC. I’m telling you he’s not as bad as people think.

      Liked by 3 people

      1. he’s a 9 win ceiling coach getting paid $3.5M. He may get Pitt ranked once every 4 years. I’d take Dino Babers at this point.

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  48. Your making excuses for Capel TX period. When the X-man leaves Pitt after this coming season there is a real possibility that the Pitt BB team two years from now is worse then the one fielded last season.

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  49. Schools shouldn’t increase their cost of enrollment just to increase the stipends they can pay out.
    Why create additional financial burden on all of the students, their families, and all of the tax payers who pay for student loans?

    The cost of attending college is already extremely outlandish.

    For those same reasons, schools should not someday start paying their athletes.

    If any organisation should pay for entertainers, it should be the ncaa. They are the the ones who are in charge of all college sports are they not?

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    1. You’re right. They should only increase it on paper. There are lots of ways to do this I am sure…

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  50. It’s pretty obvious to myself and others who recognize that Capel gets far better treatment than Narduzzi ever has and I don’t want to hear that Narduzzi has been at PITT longer. Narduzzi has been disliked by many from the get go.

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    1. Because he is a pompous bum whose only value was being an extra in Planet of the Apes III. He recruits like he is at Slippery Rock and has the bravado like he actually won something in his days coaching.

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  51. what does a .500 record get Narduzzi? A bowl every year. And probably another extension

    what does a .500 record get Capel? Not even an invite to the NIT. And a pink slip.

    what conference is the toughest in all of basketball?

    what division is the weakest in all of P-5 football?

    both Pitt coaches need to step up their recruiting game

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  52. Hi Pov’ers, it has been awhile but only because I didn’t register for WordPress, I loathe having to create any more passwords at this point in life. Anyway I have kept reading and since the wordpress is lifted I will try and comment more. In the meantime I need some hotel advice. I have not been back to Pittsburgh since 2000 (Pitt 12 PSU 0). My son turns 9 on Sept 30th so for his birthday we are going to take the trip from LA back to my college home and hit the Pitt-Delaware game 9/28 and the Steelers-Bengals game 9/30. I can’t wait. The question I have is last time I was there Heinz Field had not even opened so in looking for a place to stay I am clueless. I am not really concerned about cost so what I am most looking for is a hotel located walkable/shuttle to Heinz. Any advice or suggestions? I hope the tail gate will be in affect 9/28 as well. So excited for the trip.

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    1. Pittpride26 – I stayed at Hotel Indigo last time, just across the river from the South Side and walking distance to Oakland. New and convenient and not terribly priced.

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    2. If price is no object, I recommend the Renaissance, or Fairmont, but there are plenty of options. The Wyndym (the old Hilton is right across the river with a walking bridge. The Sheraton St Square has the Gateway Clipper Fleet which is fun. There are new hotels right between the stadiums. The William Penn is the Grande Dame.

      The most important thing is to schedule soon because the hotels fill up for Steeler games and they get top dollar.

      If you want to do something really different, the Oaklander is brand new right across the street from the Cathedral. It is the Old PAA plus a huge addition. Quite pricey and I am sure they will provide a shuttle.You can get a great view of the Campus.

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    3. Second the William Penn. Grand ol’ dame, currently in excellent shape. You can take the T to the stadiums — underground light rail — and it’s no cost from dahntahn.

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    4. I normally stay at the residence inn north shore, very close to fran’s tailgate.
      If you have a car they will charge an extra $30 or so from parking. Or I’ve stayed at the William Penn, you can take the T, but in reality the walk is not that bad. Plus, you can park in the parking garage right across the street for $7 a day. They also have better prices when the north shore is over priced due to the Steelers playing.

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    5. Wow. I’m excited for you. I hope you are leaving some time to show him some of the town. My kids enjoyed touring the nationality classrooms and the Heinz History Center so you can really set the hook.

      I vote for the grand old lady.

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  53. X man going pro ain’t happening,,,,well not NBA pro anyway.

    Funny how HCPN was going to leave after his early success, now we can’t get rid of him soon enough. He has done some very good things, most importantly the wins v PSU and Clemson, the Coastal was really good considering when they announced that they would do it(after the poor start), but next year will mean a ton for me and likely all the kool-aid sippers and probably even the drinkers.

    Capel has had a short time to turn around a totally trashed, formerly great program…hoping he gets the Dematha big. I am very close by Dematha,,,and can scrape together a bag of money,,,but since I’m new to this, how much do you think it will take?

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    1. You think Pitt is going to pay out Narduzzi and hire a top-notch coach who will take the program to new heights playing in a half-filled Heinz?

      Capel isn’t landing any of the talented bigs for 2020. Those kids go to established programs, which Pitt once was until Dixon failed mightily to recruit on that success. And here we are staring at four straight losing seasons.

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  54. Here’s one to consider. Probably some better options. But serves the purpose.

    Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh-Downtown
    1247 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15222, USA TEL: +1-412-288-4350 FAX: +1-412-338-8420

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    1. Hyatt place on the north shore is great for stadium access and it’s pretty new. Reasonably priced with big rooms and sofa. Of course everyone jacks up the price on game days…

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  55. Funny how we used to hear that Kids would give their right arm to play at the Pete… and then in the ACC… and then with Capel.

    And now Kids don’t want to come because of two years of Stallings.

    Good stuff.

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  56. pittpride, we have stayed at the Renaissance at the foot of the clemente bridge downtown and close to Market Square which is happening, Sheraton Station Square is fun as it is next to the clipper fleet for a boat ride to the game and the Duquesne incline is just down the street. also have stayed at the Residence in next to PNC Park also a Spring Hill in the same block…

    Liked by 1 person

  57. I am having to log back in every time I leave the sight…how do i get my name and email to stick…..

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    1. It’s probably a browser setting. But I couldn’t tell you which one

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  59. PP26, first question would have to be how much money are you willing to spend? Since it’s the Bengals in town the north shore might not be an option. Booked or buku bucks but since the Steelers game is a Monday night game and you’re staying 3 nights you may get a room, don’t wait but $$. The Renaissance is a nice place but again $$. The Westin and The Wyndham are close to the T as shuttles will be limited on game day.

    Biggie, wish I could help but I can’t remember what I had for dinner last night so I surely can’t remember how I logged in a few years ago. Can someone help Bernie?

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  61. Ike – Narduzzi’s only value was as an extra in Planet of the Apes. He recruits like he is at Slippery Rock.

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    2. Listen my Texan son, call me your Latrobean Dad. I believe you already have one down in Fayette County? Seriously, it’s great to have you back buddy….. I think 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  62. The Sy miss really isn’t as big of a deal as many are making it. This kid is tall and pretty good. Not like he was the next Zion.

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    1. Pitt needs tall and pretty good. Why would you compare him to Zion? Is Capel sitting pretty with another Zion in 2020?

      X, Trey, Toney, Sy and Brown would have been a good starting five in Capel’s second year. And all would have been back the following year.

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  63. I still think X will be gone after next season. They pay pretty well in Europe and from his tweets it seems he is looking to cash some checks will before he gets any Pitt diploma.

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  64. Here is a thought. The Olympics allow pros in BB. Why not 6 or more years of eligibility in NCAA BB. Increase the number of eligible players. Will that even out the talent and prevent the same teams winning every year?

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  65. So…some vagabond who can’t spend more than a year in one place chooses another date for the prom, and it’s because he was paid to do so? Maybe this is simply another example of his inability to make sound decisions.

    Or, maybe we’re not getting the recruits we think we deserve is simply because our shiny gem of an athletic department ain’t as precious as we like to believe.

    H2P.

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  66. Thanks for all the hotel suggestions guys. Closest to the stadium is key but I also like the idea of being close to the incline as I am sure the boy will like that. I figure we will spend Sunday between the games on campus checking to see what is left of the dithridge fraternities, the cathedral and chowing down on O fries.

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  67. Hyatt Place- North Shore is a pretty new facility and is adjacent to Red Lot 5- I believe POV Tailgate Country. It sits between PNC Park and Heinz Field. I’ve stayed there a few times, most recently for last year’s Blue Gold game. It’s not as “grand” as those listed but logistically superior.

    Otherwise.. it’s gotta be the ole Billy Penn, right?

    Liked by 1 person

  68. I’ve been occasionally reading from afar but realized something recently. Pitt football fans really don’t disagree as much as it may appear. The “facts” really aren’t in dispute. Whether a “negativo- or hater”, a “kool aid drinker”, a “realist” or an “optimist”, I think we all agree on some things..

    Pitt is relatively smaller than most ultra-successful college football programs- leading to a smaller alumni and fan base which hampers fund-raising;
    Pitt values academics and it’s standing as a University far more than it’s athletic success;
    Pitt struggles to find it’s place in the hierarchy of Pittsburgh sports, usually behind the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and even PSU;
    Parking and access to Heinz field far surpasses anything available in the past at Pitt Stadium;
    There is currently little appetite among those with power (University, City, Pitt fans) to make an OCS a reality;
    Not having an OCS limits Pitt’s ability to create game days as part of the Pitt “experience”.

    There are more, but I think most agree with these things- without commentary or perspective- simply as realities.

    It is only when “perspective” comes in to play that we fracture. I like to group Pitt fans in (3) categories of perspective. While there may be some overlap, I think each of us can identify most strongly with one group. For fun, see what group best identifies you. I’ve named them after (3) Pitt coaches of the modern era. Then, instead of calling each other names and taking pot-shots, we can self identify and refer to each other accordingly.

    Wannstedt- These fans identify and understand the issues above, but think that changes can and should be made. These fans are tired of excuses and think Pitt CAN compete for National Championships.These fans understand what the football culture was like in the ’20s, ’30s, ’70s and ’80s and believe that with true commitment, Pitt could be that again.

    Harris- These fans identify and understand the issues above and have resigned themselves that changes will never be made. They are happy with 7-8 wins and the occasional Coastal Division Championship. Just like Walt (and his agent), these fans think the rest of the fans should be more realistic and “understand what Pitt is and be happy with that.”

    Majors (part II)- These fans are drunk at the tailgate and don’t know (or care) who wins on Saturday. Sure, it would be nice if Pitt wins. But if not, “Hey, it’s a beautiful day to hang out and booze in an inner-city parking lot!”

    I know all three types of Pitt fans.. and I like every DAMN one of them. Cuz guess what? There are fewer and fewer of them every year.

    Liked by 8 people

    2. I am an entrenched Harris… I ended up booking the Renaissance. The William Penn was actually sold out and some of the other hotels only offered NON refundable rates if not canceled in 24 hours. I have every intention of making the trip but September is a long way off and I was able to book Renaissance with the abilty to cancel withing 48 hours of arrival. Rates were not too bad (although my perspective is LA and NYC prices mostly), Monday rate was the highest one by far.

      Like

    4. Great comment Jay!

      I started out a Wannstandt.

      I transitioned into a Harris for my own mental health with a touch Majors.

      The wins against Clemson and Pedo along with the coastal title had me teetering on the brink of Wannstandt level again only to be beaten back down (lykely by the dastardly SOP) to Harris level.

      I do want to be Wannstandt. However as I get older I’m more likely to become a Majors.

      The other category I would add is a Graham. It means you’ve seen the writing on the wall, have had enough and just leave.

      Again, great post Jay!

      Like

  70. I’m in the Gottfried group. Paterno hated him for running down the sidelines. He recruited top 10 classes. Scouted tOSU game in the TV room of the Union (I was there). Banged the cheerleader coach (I have the video). Told Pitt to shove it and was fired. Good times.

    Liked by 2 people

  71. Can I throw a hybrid coach into the mix where I think I stand? Wannstedt/MajorsI Exactly what Wanny fan was described as but thinking PITT is in the midst of changing the athletic programs for the better. Or is that cheating? The great part of this question and game is? How others perceive each of the POVer’s and what category they fall into.

    Like

  72. Shoot…we were so close to being Sy’s fourth college in three years…maybe next year we will have a shot at being his fifth team in four years!

    Liked by 1 person

  74. Posting from PNC Park, Hoopies up 3-1 on our Panthers after three innings.

    Like

  75. Excellent posts today… lots of variety and some voices chipping in I haven’t heard in awhile… this is when we are at our best… Jay hit it on the head on his post… we all love PITT… if we had to fist fight our way outta the parking pasture in Creepy Valley I would want all yinz on my side….

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I could use you this Fall Big B. It will be my only Pitt game this year. After we get beat by 27, I’ll be ready to fight every asshole in Blue and White. If ever there was any justice in the world, let this game be a Pitt win. It will be my last !

      Like

      1. Dan your comment has a prohibited word. Though I will say you used it in the correct context

        Liked by 1 person

  78. I had forgotten how obscene some of their fans are. Haven’t changed. Would be embarrassing to have a young child here. Why do they have to be that way?

    Liked by 3 people

  79. Pitt baseball getting embarrassed by the hoopies – down 7-1 with multiple toothless runners on base with one out in the 7th.

    Count me as a “Wanny” wanting to win lyke the good ole days. And I hate psuX.

    Like

  80. TD…I agree.i.e.i.o…!!!

    Question… is ‘Eer Yellar n PITT (present) Mustard da same Keller/color…( dats/ that’s bilingual in case those peeps from down under are check’n in….

    Like

    1. Do what I usually do Bernie, just roll with what the computer spits out and hope that most people get it! Proof reading is not are strong suit.

      Like

    2. Lol aren’t you the same guy that said “never let a bad game ruin a good tailgate”?

      Liked by 1 person

  85. I’ve got a couple things to say: First, it was never more important to have Heather running the show than now. We all want to win but some would have Pitt doing dumb things and ending up with NCAA sanctions. After Stallings, raising Pitt BB up from the dead will take some time. A top 10 recruiting class right now is unrealistic. Second, given the severe limitations, Narduzzi is making some slow progress and Pitt is moving to the next level (8-9 wins per year). He needs more time. Some POVers think he will never get to 10 wins but this is Pitt we’re talking about and it will take time…

    Liked by 2 people

    1. You are appropriately named. Duzz is building a program. That takes time. Although 5 years is enough time so if no progress this year…with all his own guys…the (mostly positive) fan base will begin to turn on him. And progress means 8 wins + bowl win or 9 wins and we will tolerate a bowl loss…though that would put us right back in the same “limbo” discussion we are in now (7-7 you can see the good and the bad).

      I agree capel needs time. Lack of bigs is concerning but give him 3 yrs at least. A reputation takes years to build and a minute to tear down. It’s the same with a program. Pitt’s basketball program was built over a two decades. It took two years to tear it down. It won’t be rebuilt in two. Say what you want about heather but I think she understands that

      Liked by 3 people

      1. I think the seeds of decay in the BB program started before Stallings arrival. I liked Dixon, but he was struggling with recruiting at the end of his time at Pitt.

        Liked by 3 people

        1. Well that is true. The program was built over a decade and a half. Still, Dixon could have kept it from completely imploding. Stallings brought the house of cards tumbling down. Which in retrospect may be better in the long run?

          Like

        2. Dixon’s recruiting struggles looking back are amazing. The game versus UConn in 2009 was such an electric atmosphere that alone should have netted Pitt a top-five recruiting class. Of course the recruiting at that time and the following years was just abysmal. Thankfully he landed Zanna and Patterson.

          By Dixon’s 12th season he should have been landing kids like Carr and Stevens and not losing them to Penn State of all places. Throw in Kanote to play with Luther and Cam and Pitt would have been a top 15 program.

          Thanks, Dixon.

          Like

  87. Look at the final four. They managed to recruit some bigs and were good enough to keep the elite programs out. So it can be done, and I’ll never be convinced that UVA pays its players.

    Like

  88. I really appreciate the kind words.. I have a tremendous love for my University and it’s football team.. and now I’m a proud parent of a Pitt student.

    I agree with the posters who say we should just support and root for our guys (Ike, Tossing Thabeets, joeL, Major Majors, etc.) but I feel the pain and frustration of Tx, Upitt, and others) who are disappointed in the commitment and lack of campus/student engagement.

    I guess I’ll sum it up with this..

    https://giphy.com/gifs/network-movie-quotes-peter-finch-l3vRnMkSyknofSLpS

    Liked by 2 people

  89. Jay, we all feel your pain brother…some folks on here just deal with it differently, seriously…”keep on smilin’. through the rain, laughin’ at the pain, rollin’ to the changes til the sun comes out again…we are who we are-people don’t really change..just need to respect each other and enjoy the ride no matter how bumpy it gets…

    Liked by 6 people

  91. Jay great post and it is good you have taken a step back from the bridge. I guess I am a hybrid between the Wanny and Harris models. I find myself agreeing and disagreeing with both groups on various issues.

    I don’t think it is realistic to expect NC’s, but Pitt can certainly do better. The difficulty is that it is never a straight line and we have had to deal with complete ineptitude over and over. I think the ship is heading in the right direction but there are plenty of rough seas ahead. Recruiting is always the key but very difficult when you are Pitt. Uncertainty is always a big part of the game. After 50 years, I have experienced the highest highs and the lowest lows and like to think I have a realistic viewpoint.

    But Like Jay, I believe it is most important to respect all Pitt fans even when we strongly disagree with their thinking, from time to time.

    By the way the Sun is shining in Pittsburgh today, even though probably short lived.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Agree with Gordon. And I see myself as a hybrid too.

      — I don’t get drunk, so no Majors II.

      —I’m not happy with 7-8 wins (“Harris”);

      —but, with the recruiting hurdles we have, I don’t expect a National Championship (“Wannstedt”)….

      Go Pitt.

      Like

  92. Totally agree Gordon…
    and the sun part is nice too! Yard work today and golf tomorrow. Woo Hoo!

    Like

    1. and each visit he meets with boosters who hand him cash
      why visit that often unless there is $$$ involved

      Like

    2. Interesting that he chose the date of the Frankcan Cup golf outing.

      Has Pitt even offered this 5* WR?

      Like

      1. yes, maybe this is fate. He lives within a reasonable drive from where the golf tourney is. Just think if you guys pool your money together and make it to his house by 11:57 pm! (I will throw in an additional $50)

        Like

  94. Jay…

    The other thing that most SHOULD be able to agree on… of the three, Tower A was definitely the BEST to be in as far as location goes. And the lower the better.

    As a Fresh and Soph I was Tower A 3rd Floor facing the Quad.

    On warm days, we’d crank the windows open. Our room would fill up with people wanting to have their time sitting by the window just checking out who was coming and going.

    Without question, the main TRAFFIC area on campus.

    Could not ask for a better view!

    Like

  95. MM..”never let a bad game ruin a good party” that’s on the back of the PITT Panther Party bus owned by Tom Bailey…He parks on the other side of the building from Red 5A…Tom has been a big booster ever since he left PITT…He is a PIKA and therefore a nemesis of Dr. Tom, Atlanta Panther/Mundrick and Larosa who were all SAE’s. Those 2 frats terrorized N. Belfield during the early 70’s……

    Shout out to JoeKnew-Randy Medwid, hope all is well with you.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. “never let a bad game ruin a good party”.. the mantra of every fan of every losing team.

      Not surprising from a Pike. 🤣

      Phi Alpha!

      Like

  96. GC and Fran…golf in N Carolina is usually a “whenever” kinda thang….nice to be out there on the greens under that Carolina Blue sky..ha ha….

    Like

  97. I am surprised how quickly everyone has recovered from and has moved on from Sy…our group therapy sessions are iworking !!!

    Like

    1. While it’s disappointing, I’d bet few were really expecting Sy to come to Pitt.

      I was guessing East Carolina with his old coach and teammates…

      Go Pitt.

      Like

  98. Heading home for a long week-end Thursday. I will load the pick-up some Carolina Sunshine…Noooooo, you can’t drink it .

    Like

  100. M2.. I actually think the majority of those who closely follow Pitt Basketball were certainly expecting Sy to sign on.

    If it had been between Pitt and a couple of Basketball Powerhouses, then it would have been no big deal.

    But when it’s down to three along with Ole Miss and East Carolina?

    This is one you SHOULD win.

    Like

  101. When you count all the big men we have missed on since Adams, finally getting one will be a cause for major celebration. I am always surprised when Pitt wins an elite player in any sport.

    Like

  102. POD, I respectfully disagree on both points. The vibe I got was maybe 50-50 on whether we sign Sy or not. And further, although it’s easy to understand our expectations of clearly beating out those two programs for Sy, it’s hard to say we should have won that ‘battle’ without insight into the situation, including how badly Capel wanted him and how he was going to be used, and what really motivated Sy’s decision, especially given his past.

    And in regard to some comments above about our resolve after ‘losing Sy’, I think most on this board seem to have a more balanced perspective, especially compared to a place like the Lair, where the atmosphere strikes more of kids holed up in their moms’ basements. I personally was really hoping we landed in Sy, because he was the last viable Big I was aware of, but he was also a guy who insiders always viewed as comparable to Brown (albeit with a different, valued skill set), so his loss is viewed with that in mind, this was not a big loss in terms of talent or character. I just hope we can still grab at least one rebounder/rim protector for the sake of team momentum.

    Like

    1. Appreciate your points, but the one thing you’re failing to mention is Capel coming in with the reputation as an “Ace” Recruiter… similar to Narduzzi and his reputation coming in as a Defensive Guru.

      I think it’s pretty safe to say Capel needed Sy and preferred to have him. Problem was and is, it doesn’t seem like any other Basketball Schools had him as a priority.

      This should have put Capel in position to land him.

      Sure there can always be an unknown factor.

      But as some point Capel is going to have to meet or better yet EXCEED expectations being the ACE Recruiter is he is rumored to be.

      Like

  103. Well, we got another 3* RB to round out PN’s 2019 recruiting class…but he’s a walk-on.

    https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/Pitt/2019/05/14/pitt-panthers-football-paris-brown-recruiting-2019-pat-narduzzi/stories/201905140117

    Which puts us at an #50 recruiting class…BTW, this wasn’t the kid that the last Pat Signal referred to.

    https://pittsburgh.rivals.com/news/the-big-opportunity-for-paris-brown

    Very interesting path to Pitt for this young man.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I lost my father around the same time in my life (Reed – didn’t you also go through that/)

      No good time in one’s youth to lose a parent, but losing one when entering HS….thats a really tough time.

      I’ll be rooting for him.

      Liked by 3 people

      1. Something to be said about that JoeL. Never a good time but losing your dad at that age had to be very rough. I’ll tell you this though. He taught you how to be a real good man and a great guy!

        Like

    2. Did I read that correctly? His high school has a recruiting coordinator.

      That kid deserves a shot. Dang, he fights for every yard.

      Like

    3. 3 star?

      Narduzzi’s walk-ons are higher rated than his recruits.

      Let’s just slash the scholarship budget and buy Chicken O Clubs and 40’s for all the freshman..

      I’ll re-enroll!

      Like

  104. Getting a 3* recruit as a walk on is a good deal. He’s 200 lbs and runs fairly well. Plus, he played against great competition and he’s from Georgia. Can’t go wrong with this signing.

    Like

  105. You guys go golfing, I just got my baby back ribs on the Rec Tec smoker (I prefer St Louis style) listening to music while I started a little weed whacking. It’s just great to be out in the sunshine. Yes, I take lots and lots of breaks.

    Like

  106. BigB – I hadn’t heard the name Tom Bailey in years. Believe it or not, he was our wrestling coach when I was in junior high for a short time. I believe he was an interim coach when the previous coach resigned. It’s the same Tom Bailey, as I remember that he was also a big Pitt booster. He also refereed high school wrestling. Blast from the past for sure!

    Like

  107. Rocky, he goes to most games home and away…lives in McKeesport Pa. He would love to hear from you..I had his business card..will see if I can get the info..better yet come back for a home game and meet the POVnation…Tom parks the party bus right aroungd the corner from Fran’s tailgate.

    Like

  108. Tx, rumor has it 5star Fleming developed a fetish for ” Peachy Paterno” while carousing the State College night life during his 1st trip.

    Liked by 1 person

  110. Boy, is this going to go over well here!

    Like

    1. 11 am?
      I’ve always thought it be borderline alcoholic to crack one open before noon

      Like

    2. 11 am? So, in order to get to Heinz for 2 hours of tailgating, I’ll have to leave around 6 am.. to see Pitt play a MAC team? Hmm.. Nope, not me. All those yellow seats will be visible from space.

      Like

    1. she is the AD
      I’ve never heard of 11 am
      high noon yes – especially in Billy the Kid Country down here…he was a frequent visitor of the brothels in Ft Worth

      Like

        1. but this wont be the last 11 am start for Pitt
          heather just bends over and asks may I have another
          a real AD would shove that paddle up the pledge masters arse
          enough of this southern league pushing us Northerners around
          total disrespect

          Like

      2. C’mon man. Your posts suggest you can figure this out. Its not her call – things are being run out of Greensboro and Pitt is the tail of the dog. When Oakland has two Bojangles and a Hardee’s is when Heather gets the pull to avoid less than satisfactory times. Plus a little thing called wins.

        They (the ACC and ESPN) are going to optimize TV ratings and that means OOC games won’t have priority times, unless the opponent is big time like ND.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. she controls the OOC
          she controls who decides to extend via contract
          its on her

          one 11 am game is enough for a year
          if Pitt gets shafted by bending over more than once, its all on her
          i would think winning the coastal and Pitt would have more pull?
          i would think Narduzzi having the 4th most ACC wins of any coach would do it?

          I call bull
          she can make hay if she wants to rock the boat
          what kind of fan experience is this

          i dont trust either of those networks to optimize ratings
          there is always subjectivity involved
          thats when a real AD earns the pay

          Like

    1. God willing I’ll be there for that one. I don’t expect an 11:00 start. No one thinks the 7:30 Virginia start is good? She doesn’t get credit for that either.

      Like

    1. that Pitt paid $12M for and is expected to earn maybe $3M extra per year
      4 years to payoff the initial investment
      Heather will be gone by then

      Like

  116. apparently you better get used to 11 am kickoffs with the advent of the ACC Network. I guess the 12:30 time slot was not so bad after all

    Like

  117. and once again …. 11 am kickoffs are common in the B10 West and B12 … including many Red River Rivalry games (OU vs Texas)

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    1. its common only because its so freakin hot down here. At 11, its only 95 degrees. You wait until 3 and its 105. At 7 PM, its 98

      you havent experienced heat until you’ve experienced North Texas

      Like

  118. Read a blog that a Wake Forest 7-footer decommitted. Wonder if Capel is investigating the kid. Ace recruiter at Duke apparently does not automatically mean being one at Pitt. Sigh.

    Like

  119. a story in the PG has Narduzzi 2018 salary at $3.14M … so apparently that $3.5M figure was a little high. He still is in the lower half of the Coastal and the ACC, but being he came in at just about half of that, he is likely not complaining

    Like

    1. he is very well compensated
      are they reporting just base or total comp?

      Wanny won 10 making $1M

      Like

    2. about 1 year old
      https://sports.usatoday.com/ncaa/salaries/

      most coaches ahead of him won more than 7 games
      many coaches behind him won more than 7 games

      Pitt seems to be happy paying a coach to be mediocre

      42nd in pay
      what was Pitt’s final ranking in Saragin or RPI? It sure wasnt 42nd or better.

      Like

  120. I do have to say…….. poor Fran, we are going to have to figure out something to help you friend. Have you considered pitching a tent on the north shore Friday night? 🙂 I most likely won’t be at the Ohio game and now the chances did get even slimmer but I’ll chip in for a room for you to stay over the night before.

    Like

  121. No need Ike…I’m a professional 😎
    I will be at every game barring illness 5 hours prior to kickoff…as will Wolfe and Scooter.

    Liked by 2 people

  122. “barring illness”….Fran, the collective POV faithful will be praying for your continued good health for many years to come!

    Liked by 2 people

  123. Some here are taking the easy way out by proclaiming themselves “hybrids” in regards to my classifications.

    I’ve spoken to some of you and I’ve read most of you.. With all due respect to those in the “hybrid” camp- you’re HARRIS all the way.

    Unless you expect and demand that things change, you have resigned yourself that things “are what they are.” You may not be happy with 7-8 wins, but you’re not stomping your feet and screaming from the rooftops that you demand more.

    There’s nothing wrong with that. You’re probably a much happier person than I.. but you, my friends are a Walt.

    H2P!

    Like

    1. Jay – I’m no hybrid. I’m straight Gottfried. Any coach who bangs the cheerleader coach gets my salute.

      Like

    1. problem is that most college games go more than 3 hours these days … especially now for Pitt when they will be passing the ball more

      Like

  125. This is a little off topic, but does anyone else watch “Ballers” with Dwayne Johnson on HBO? Great show which I suspect sheds a bright spotlight on how dirty and ridiculous the business of colllege and pro sports is.

    Like

  127. Despite what anyone thinks……… I believe PITT should do better, can do better and will do better………. Wonder what Sigmund thinks of that? I played as hard as anyone and always would take losses as hard anyone. That’s when I was in control of the outcome. Yet, never ever yelled, complained, questioned or protested an umpire once. As far as PITT goes, it’s a hope and a prayer for me. More so now than ever….. What’s the use?

    Like

  128. Quick look at the tax return. The $3.14M from PPG is base & bonus/incentive. Another $71.5k in other misc. stuff bringing total to 3,214M.

    So TX, keep saying $3.5M. One of these years PN will make that magic number. BTW, DW made $1.8M his last year at PITT.

    I am going to bed. Will make a more detailed look tomorrow or the next day. I know everyone is waiting for a long boring accounting review.

    Liked by 2 people

    2. any number that Pitt reports is one year behind. its always been that way. i dont believe the new numbers come out until June or September. Theres some report that I’ve previously posted. The info is contained there only because Pitt is state related and there are certain right to know acts. If Pitt were private (and for all intents and purposes it is), none of this would be required disclosure.

      My point is that gorilla arms is the 42nd highest paid coach if you believe these figures reported in different ways by different colleges. Dont quibble on the exact placement. Know for a fact that the man is highly compensated. He makes nearly 10 times what Heather makes. I’ll let you be the judge on who you think is over or underpaid.

      I know where I stand

      Like

  129. Anyone interested in going to psu for the PITT game. I can order a couple for you as I’m sure many can. Let me know to put an order in for you. No profit for me just what the face value will be.

    Like

  130. Everyone, i’ve started a new thread in case the 200 comment threshold is making this one too cumbersome…enjoy

    Like

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