If you haven’t heard, Pitt’s football training camp is going to start this week.
For those of us who have suffered through a long, quiet off-season that is welcome news.
And believe me, a quiet off-season is a good one. I don’t think I can remember an offseason where nobody got hurt, and nobody had a run-in with the law.
On the contrary, by all accounts the Pitt team spent their summer quietly focused on conditioning. Just like all good football programs do.
While football is a team game, no one position is as important as the quarterback, and it’s no secret that Pitt’s success season will rest on the arm of Junior Kenny Pickett. Pickett has also been putting in work during the offseason. With his personal coach Tony Racioppi…
And with a couple of guys down south…
And with a few guys on the team…
Yep, Pickett can drop the ball on a dime if he’s given time. The question is, will he be given time? Pitt is replacing four starters on the offensive line this season, and well, that could be a recipe for disaster. After all, Pitt’s O-line ranked 116th in sack rate in 2018. And none of the guys that are going to be starting this year were able to crack the starting lineup last year. The optimist will cling to the hope that Pat Narduzzi’s desire to put juniors and seniors on the field meant that that he sat younger, more physically talented guys in 2018. That same optimist will say that with another year under their belts, last year’s backups ideally will be ready to play in 2019. That optimist will point out that grizzled OL Coach Dave Borbley isn’t as bad at teaching pass blocking as everyone makes him out to be, and that he got dealt a bad hand at Maryland. The pessimist will say all of that is hooey and Kenny Pickett is going to be running for his life. The realist wills say that we aren’t going to know for sure until August 31st, but you can be darn sure we are going to be reading in between the lines of every Dave Borbley and Mark Whipple interview this August.
The running backs are as unproven as the offensive line. And as with the OL, most Pitt fans should have a pretty good understanding of the situation because it’s been much discussed during the off-season. With that being said, I’ll go over it again, just to refresh your memory.
Neither of the two junior running backs in the room has shown anything special in their first two years. AJ Davis, who is number one right now on the depth chart, did log a 4.2 YPC rushing average last year on 32 totes, but his body of work suggests he’s a straight-ahead power back without the capability to make anyone miss. His senior season highlight film would seem to confirm this. Davis’ best assets coming out of high school looked to be his vision and his balance, with some decent (but not great) top end speed. Andre Powell is a good coach though, and he’ll get the most out of Davis. If Pitt is forced to roll with Davis as the lead back, the running game should be solid, but not great.
Todd Sibley, the other Junior on the depth chart, and currently listed as #2, is cut from a similar cloth. His strengths seem to be power and burst, and he looks to have a little more top end speed than Davis. If he gets a crease, there’s a good chance he’ll take it to the house, but he’s probably not going to create something out of nothing. I like to think of Sibley as a shorter, stronger version of Darrin Hall. (Who by all rights was not a bad college football player)
I think the most telling thing about the running back situation was that Pitt moved officially moved V’Lique Carter to running back in the spring so he could learn the position. Carter, you’ll remember had a breakout game against Duke. Shawn Watson, brilliant tactician that he was, went on to use Carter the exact same way in every single game after that, and so the Duke game was Carter’s only real tour-de-force performance. Nonetheless, Carter demonstrated enough shake-n-bake ability to have Pitt fans salivating at the prospect of new OC Mark Whipple finding a way to get him 10-15 touches per game. And yet Running Backs coach Andre Powell downplayed Carter’s progress during the spring…
I will do nothing of the sort…
Editor’s note: I added this after a couple of readers had pointed out that Salahuddin had been omitted. Redshirt Freshman Mychale Salahuddin is another wildcard. He flashed in a few games last season and then went down with a knee injury. Depending on the severity of the injury Sala may or may not be back to 100%. If he is back at full strength, he has a chance to make an impact. If not, well there is always next year.
True Freshman Daniel Carter (5’10” 220) and Vincent Davis (5’8″ 170) are the other two wild cards in the deck. Here are their high school films (Sorry I couldn’t get them to embed). Carter is more physically ready, but that Vincent Davis is electric. Would be very surprised if we didn’t see V. Davis play in at least four games this year
Carter : http://www.hudl.com/v/28Pz0x
V. Davis: http://www.hudl.com/video/3/6394361/5ba0f1eab023e20af8ef2f3c
As far as Wide Receivers, Pitt is going to run with three starting WR’s in Whipple’s new offense. Two of them have proven they can perform well at the ACC level…they would be Maurice Ffrench and Taysir Mack. Tre Tipton is listed as starting slot WR, and he did some damage in the spring game, catching two TD’s from Kenny Pickett. Highly touted Florida sophomore Shockey Jacuqes-Louis is listed right behind him. That one should be an interesting camp battle to watch, and SJL is a heck of a nice insurance policy if Tipton gets injured (again). On top of all that, new WR coach Chris Beatty has coached up a few pretty good receivers in his day, and it sounds like he’s a lot more detail-oriented than his predecessor. If the OL can give Pickett time to throw, the WR’s could be a very pleasant surprise…
Finally, Tight End. Well the good news is that the depth chart only calls for one of them. The other good news is that we have a senior grad transfer riding on on a white horse to save us from what has been an unmitigated disaster. What’s more, it appears that this metaphorical white (Scarlet?) knight can can both block and catch. While he may not be great at either, he seems pretty good at both, and for Pitt that’s an upgrade.
On the defensive side, This. Is. The. Year. I’m saying it right now. This is the year that Pitt’s unit finally lives up to its potential. We’ve got a decent DC who spent years teaching linebackers how to defend against the read option (which is all they run at Nortwestern). We’ve got two good pass rushers (Weaver and Jones II). We’ve got two solid-to-very-good interior lineman (Camp and Watts), and an additional DT who could potentially be a wrecking ball (Twyman). In the linebacking corps, Chase Pine is finally old enough for the coaches to feel confident about putting him on the field, and the rest of the guys around him should be solid. And in the secondary we have two starting corners coming back, and a couple of all-city Safeties in Paris Ford and Damar Hamlin. If this year’s defense doesn’t perform, there is no hope for for Defense in Pittsburgh.
So my question to you readers, where do you think the camp battles will be fought? And who do you think will emerge? Offensive line is probably the biggest question mark, and so I’ll leave you with the current two-deep (courtesy of Pittsburgh Sports Now), and a list of he offensive linemen on the roster. But there are some other battles sure to emerge as well. Enjoy.
Here are the scholarship linemen listed and sorted by year.
Upperclassmen
- Chase Brown – rSr (juco a couple years ago)
- Nolan Ulizio – rSr (Michigan transfer)
- Jimmy Morrissey – rJr (named to at least two pre-season watch lists)
- Bryce Hargrove -rJr (played in last three games of season last year)
- Brandon Ford – rJr (played in Sun Bowl)
- Jake Kradel – rFr
- Rashad Wheeler – rJr (flipped from Defense)
Underclassmen
- Carter Warren – rSo (Ed Conway award winner, currently penciled in at Left Tackle)
- Gabe Houy – rSo (played against Albany)
- Carson Van Lynn – rSo (palyed TE second half of the season last year)
- Jerry Drake – rSo (seems like he’s been around forever but he’s just a Sophomore)
- Owen Drexel – rSo
- Blake Zubovic – rFr
- Liam Dick – Fr
- Matt Goncalves – Fr
Guys that could potetentially flip to OL
- Jason Collier – Fr – TE – 6’5″, 285
pittpov.com 
Sorry Mike, I can’t seem to stop laughing long enough to comment………”Shawn Watson, brilliant tactician that he was….”
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It’s never too soon to say, “wait till next year”.
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Very nice writeup and a great summery IMO. Probably a little too much Kool Aid for some however.
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Just the way I like it
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Great write up. I liked the white “scarlet” night line.
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Good stuff, Maestro and thanks for keeping us sane this summer.
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MM – nice job. Lots to ponder. Best thing is you’re actually talking about the players- the fightin’ Pitt Panthers!
And I hope we’re not jinxing anybody, but as you alluded to, I always sweat-out getting thru July without any “incidents” involving any Panthers!
Go Pitt.
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Good stuff. I think you left out Michael Salahuddin, who I am actually most excited about at running back. If healthy, I think he breaks out this year. I know it’s a small sample, but he seems to have the moves and speed to be special.
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Ah yes. You are right. I will add a blurb
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Coach Duzz has fixed some things, like his hiring of Coach Bates, and his dismissal of the previous OC and WR coaches.
One thing that maybe he’s coming around on – but it’s still up in the air for me – is the type of RB he recruits. We have a roster of RBs with some speed and some power, but no shiftiness. No one even close to Ray or Dion, let alone Shady.
Is V’lique Carter’s move from DB to RB a sign that Coach Duzz recognizes this shortcoming?
Is the freshman Vincent Davis really “electric?” If so, maybe it’s a good sign.
You need a combo of power backs and shifty guys, IMHO. I realize this post is a bit ironic coming off a season with two 1000-yard rushers, but that’s the way I see it…
Go Pitt.
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Maestro, very comprehensive write-up. Great job
Two omissions: the LB transfer from Florida who may or may not be factor, as well as whom I think, IF healthy, is the most overall talented RB of the lot, Mychale Salahuddin. He is my sleeper pick for this year (if healthy)
The good thing is that there are very few seniors listed in the 2-deep. The bad things is that there are very few seniors listed in the 2-deep.
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Totally agree that this is the year we see a really good all-around defense, although I am slightly weary of the linebacking group. Offensively, I think with Whipple’s scheme and Pickett’s development we will see a more effective and balanced offense. Legitimate concerns at OL, but I’m holding out hope that the OL unit outplays expectations. If they do, this could be a special year.
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Great write up MM! I hated summer camp more than I hate my X wife!
Still get anxiety thinking about it.
I agree with your defensive thoughts. BS! Problem is I’ve spent the last 4 years watching Pitts secondary get torched game in game out. Our big bet amongst Pitt fans was how many plays it will take the opposing team to score! Admit it… you’ve done it too!
So when UVA takes the kickoff and drives for a TD on opening drive it will be deja vu all over again. I say 7 plays….all pass.
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Well hope springs eternal. Until the opposing team has the ball…
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What is Pitt takes the kickoff and drives 80 yards in 3 plays?…all passes.
Come on, man. Haha.
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Pitt will be a better team by years end. But I think many are underestimating how difficult it is to replace most of a line and to change systems. However, Experience and familiarity this year could set up a special season next year.
Ten wins come Kenny’s senior year is a good possibility. But then Pitt starts all over. That’s a problem. They rebuild instead of reloading.
Narduzzi needs to play far more freshman and redshirts so they gain experience. That’s how you reload. He needs to stop being risk adverse.
BTW. My opinion is not fake news or negative if you don’t like it. And it’s not like I care if you like it or not anyway. 🙂
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I liked it Tex…
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Fully agree with your comment about the team.
I wouldn’t be surprised if we encounter a bump in the road early on with the run game while the OL gels. Will help if Pickett can start fast. Gonna need Carrigan and the RBs to provide outlets for him.
Think most coaches are risk averse and don’t start underclassmen unless they are truly special and have shown as much in camp. Not sure Duzz has had many of those to work with (for reference, see billions of POV posts criticizing lack of 4* recruits).
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Very nice, Maestro, but…
I enjoyed the Pickett- methinks our receivers should all wear nets around their shoulders, and stand perfectly still! I’ve always thought that the true test of a great QB is his ability to throw THRU a water fountain and into a trash can!
I think this year’s breakout is BORBS – that is, if we have recruited OL guys with good feet! That remains to be seen!
In the words of Huff III – think 1-0!!
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Dan, some things to consider when evaluating the defense:
what Duzz brought in with him when he came from MSU and what they are running now are somewhat different
Chryst/Matt House left a light cupboard on the defensive side of the ball when they departed
Josh Conklin ran the D for the 1st 3yrs and Duzz learned that his scheme wasn’t as effective in the ACC
Bates has prevailed upon him to make changes to the scheme and we saw improvement there last year.
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I consider myself a realist, not an optimist when it comes to Pitt Football. But this year, there’s just something a little different that has me juiced up. While I do not blame all of our offensive woes last year on Watson, he was a huge part of the problem. I remain quite concerned about the Offensive Line. But we have more able bodies there than in the past. Hoping that the coaches find and plug in the correct ones. I love our new WR coach, and our DC. Say what you want about Duzz, but it appears that kids love playing for him and his staff. Our secondary has tremendous potential, as does the D Line. Schedule is slightly easier. Nobody is unbeatable. Do I expect us to lose to an inferior team? Of course I do, we are the Pitt Panthers after all. But maybe because I’ve got my transplant surgery coming up, it’s got me trying to be optimistic about other things. Or maybe Pitt Football is actually getting better. One can hope…. H2P!!! Nice Article maestro!!!
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It seems like there’s enough depth that the team shouldn’t have any glaring weaknesses, but then again some of these guys are rather unproven. I am still cautiously optimistic, though, given that the ACC Coastal is almost always wide open. If you’re not terrible, you’ve got a chance. The bigger question for me is if they have enough playmakers on offense and defense that can make a big play or two to help swing a couple close games. That could be the difference between 6-6 and 8-4.
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Duzz is in a tough spot opening with uva, and having psux just around the corner. He HAS to beat the Cavs, but hopefully he won’t have to show Franken(non)sense all his stuff in order to win the opener.
Hey – if we win the opener, it could make for a sports writer’s Dream Headline:
“The ‘Calves’ beats The Cavs”!!
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Many will disagree, but if we had to go 1-1 against UVA and PSU, I’d take the win against UVA. That game is huge for ACC momentum.
I think our offense will be pretty good, but it will likely take a few games for Coach Whipple to get the kinks out (there’s a song cue for ike!).
The defense needs to play well those first few games…
Of course, the correct answer is to go 2-0 against UVA and PSU! Wouldn’t that be sweet…😳
Go Pitt.
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Our OLmen are both young and inexperienced – a bad combo! Both Brown and Ulizio, who will be the only two to use up their eligibility this year, are transfers. Quite an OLine gap in the roster.
Morrisey and Hargrove are juniors. I think junior Brandon Ford may win a guard spot.
My biggest concern on the team, by a wide margin, is whether we can find two OTs who can be at least play average… Hate to put so much pressure on Coach Borbs and the OTs, but the success or failure of the season depends on them, IMHO…😊
Go Pitt.
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Here’s one John most of you never heard but will find out the Hard Way that PITT will win with Narduzzi…
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Tx @ 5:33 – for the first time in my life, I agree with everything you said in a post. Of course, it was a short post! And it’s not like you care if I liked it or not!
There are only 2 ways the OL can go early this year – either they jell and play, or they don’t. If they don’t, maybe Borts puts in some youngsters, (and we begin the reload process)!
It could happen
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MM – nice way to lead into camp. It’s always great to have a “hope springs eternal” piece this time of year. Good planning on your part too, since it gives you plenty of time to start working on your “wait till next year” article to publish in December. 🙂
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Not to overstate, but the entire season rests on the OL. I think that both Brown and Ulizio will start, due to Sr. maturity and at least some experience (or else there is some real underclassman talent I don’t appreciate). Morrissey and Hargrove make 4. So we will find out in camp who fills the 5th spot. Count on the TE staying in to block most of the first half of the season.
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Our two best guards play on the same side, the left. Ford isn’t good enough to play right? Only Pitt would have this issue. I do not want Brown starting so hopefully Weaver made strides.
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Maestro – to respond to your question, I believe the key battle of camp will be at RB.
I have no idea who will prevail, but believe blocking ability will be a material consideration.
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Nice article Mike. I was a little saddened that Aaron Mathews hasn’t done enough to warrant any comment as he enters what I’m guessing is his last year. I had always hoped he would progress to the point where with his height he could become a hybrid of Mike Shanahan and Jester Weah. Perhaps Coach Narduzzi implored you to go radio dark regarding Aaron Mathews.
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Mathews is probably the best blocking receiver in the country. It never came together for him as a pass catcher, but maybe this year it does. It stinks he didn’t redshirt, but he will help this team win games this season.
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I too am a big Aaron Matthews fan. Seems like a no brainer to try to get him the ball
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Agree about Aaron Mathews, but he will see a lot of plays because he is a ferocious blocker and big enough to take on linebackers. Also big and strong enough for slant patterns.
Still expect to see a power running game with the kind of players we have, but a much more balanced offense with Whipple. No doubt the key will be the D-Tackles, but also KP’s ability to complete passes when he is flushed out of the pocket. Hopefully Whipple has helped with improving this skill. The big thing is getting KP enough time to survey the field and find who is open. Rarely happened last year.
I think Davis will be very good once he gets enough carries to break a few. If Carter learns when to cut back against the grain he will be dangerous.
Schedule may be slightly easier, but very few games are sure victories, most will be highly competitive and can go either way. Winning the close ones is always the key to a good record.
We need more than 50,000 for the VA and UCF games. Good crowds could make a difference.
I know O-linemen need more girth, but none of them appear to be challenging Twyman in the weight room.
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First and foremost… simply an EXCELLENT job on your “all-encompassing” Post.
As for the Players… just a couple of things to note…
You mention Chase Pine getting on the field. Was not a fan early in his career. But saw enough of him last year and at the Spring Game to project him as one of the possible “Breakout” Players this year.
Right now, they’re talking about him playing outside. Personally see Pine best in the MIDDLE where he could be a force.
The other “Breakout” Player is certain to be whoever Whipple picks to assume the role of his Slot Receiver last year at UMass. That would be Andy Isabella drafted by the Arizona Cardinals.
Off the top of my head I would say V’Lique Carter is the PERFECT fit. But the obvious need for speed at Runningback is calling his name with plenty of other Players with Ffrench connections available to play the Slot.
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I don’t think Carter has great hands. Was recruited as a DB. Check out his highlight film
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That would explain a lot.
One thing for sure, whoever is the primary Slot Receiver is going to see a lot of Balls coming their way.
That should also help Pickett by allowing him to get the Ball quickly to a Primary Receiver who should be open a lot of the time.
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I think we will see our fair share of Frenchy in the slot. And i hope I’m right
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Oh… and how can we forget the other french connection on the Defensive Side of the Ball.
If Paris Ford is able to play up to the ability he showed on his tape in High School… his mere presence should make everything better.
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Hoping for Ford to bust out as well. Remember when it was hoped that we would see an all WPIAL backfield with Whitehead, Hamlin, Ford and I a can’t remember who the fourth guy was, maybe Dravon Henry. In any case the was a long time ago, but it looks like we will finally see Hamlin and Ford on the field at the same time.
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Garner from the WPIAL as well so 3 of 4.
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Sorry Dane Jackson is the other WPIAL starter.
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if any of you have guessed by now of my admiration for Barry Alvarez, both as a coach and AD, you are correct. Wisconsin FB fortune’s definitely changed for the better when arrived in ’90.
As an AD, he is in charge of scheduling and while this year’s OOC is weak as was a couple recent seasons, he definitely has a clue. UW usually plays one pretty good P5 team, and the rest vs mid-level opponents. While he may have bitten off more than he can chew in ’24 and ’25, here is how an OOC should look IMO
https://fbschedules.com/ncaa/wisconsin/
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Barry wanted the Pitt job in the 90’s. Bozik gave the job to Hackett instead.
Bad hires are the cause of many of Pitt’s problems. I mean real bad hires like Hackett, majors 2, Willard, fraud, Stallings, steve2
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Yeah, bad hires have killed Pitt. Dave Hart. Carl DePasqua. The list goes on…
Ralph Willard was one who seemed like a good hire at the time though…
Go Pitt.
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Would Barry had taken the job once the BoT laid out its new rules admission rules in the interview? Pitt was turning away kids who passed their SATs but didn’t reach the number set by the Admissions department.
Chris T. Jones was one kid who signed and passed his SAT but was turned away and played at Miami. Were mandatory 6 a.m. study halls implemented by Hackett or was the BoT demanding it under its new rules? That was a huge negative when it came to recruiting. Good student-athletes didn’t even want to be up that early and why would they?
Gottfried had a good thing going and there were still a lot of good players in Western Penn., that he could recruit. Mike also had a presence in Ohio and Ohio State was average early on under Cooper until it made its move in 1993 when finishing 10-1-1. Gottfried could have landed such kids as Joey Galloway and Korey Stringer. Mike liked to throw the football and had Van Pelt for three more years while filling out his roster.
A decade completely pissed away and for what? Academic integrity?
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^^ Only to be repeated once again a decade later with Wanny. So that’s why I say I”m sorry to the Narduzzi detractors. I truly believe that PITT has learned their lesson by getting rid of coaches too soon. Narduzzi will really have to eff something up for him to be on a warm seat let alone a hot seat.
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We really need an EDIT button. I type too fast when at work only to see my errors later and I hate it.
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Hey Nate, do what I and a few others do.. hit the post comment button and let er fly. If people understand what you’re trying to say………. mission accomplished. I’ve never gotten use to posting without the edit button as I am proof reading deficient. Yet I remain undeterred.
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Breakout: Vincent Davis. Might not be able to keep him off the field.
Jerry Drake is a puzzle. I was sure, when he came to Pitt, he would anchor the OL for several years. It’s not like there is a lot of talent on the OL.
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I hope you’re right about Vincent Davis. Has happened before with a freshman RB or two or three…
Go Pitt.
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I can’t think of a football player with better balance than Vincent Davis.
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Hey ike, speaking of the Kinks, several years ago I saw Ray Davies perform at the Music Hall in the Homestead Carnegie Library. Good stuff…
The Kinks were quite a crazy band…
Go Pitt.
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mid 60s – best garage band around: All Day and All Night / Your Really Got Me
later 60s — more sophistication: Sunny Afternoon / Well Respected Man
1970: Lola (no comment necessary)
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Best song ever by Kinks “Victoria”.
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as a follow-up above posts by wlat, Major and NateB. it appears that the current team is the Smug Steve / Nordy pipe dream ….. no arrests, suspensions and I believe the graduation rate is as high as its ever been
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The Kinks and the Davies brothers were best known for getting into fist fights on stage with each other back in the day. The original Gallagher brothers.
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The Kinks were somehow banned from performing in the US for several years because of their incidents and reputation. Really hurt their record sales and chart levels in the US…
BTW, Ray Davies said he never liked the name “The Kinks”. They chose the name to get attention…
Go Pitt.
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Got an email from Pitt (Andrew Johnston) where they are looking for season-ticket holders to refer groups to Pitt. Examples of groups include:
· Youth Football Teams and Leagues
· Cheerleaders
· Dance Teams
· Marching Bands
· First Responders
· Healthcare professionals
· Union craftsmen
· Fellowship
· Educators (teachers and administrators)
· Nonprofits (fundraising opportunities are available)
The reward, if a group attends a game, is that the person who referred them gets a pre-game field pass…which is a very nice experience.
Go Pitt.
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Clever idea.
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John, yes I got one from Nick. Kind of made me feel like I’m not doing anything worthwhile in my life anymore. I was 0-10 haha
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ike — what about that POV group you belong to…😊
Actually it would be cool to have a POV group down on the field to “line the tunnel” before a game. We could help get the Panther’s fired up!
Or, we could just send Scooter down to line-the-tunnel!
Go Pitt!
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Hopefully, we come out of camp unscathed, injury free…”All present and accounted for Sir’” that includes the POVert Nation…
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Mike, great article very enjoyable. The breakout player this year better be Kenny Pickett. After last season he has to show he is a legit D1 qb. Granted he was under pass rush every time he tried to pass the ball and Watson gave him very little help as far as play options, but he has to show that he can be effective in game situations. This is the year KP must be productive or he will be demoted.
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I do believe Whipple will pull Pickett if he’s not getting the job done. Of course having faith in Patti or George will be a prerequisite before pulling Pickett.
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Don’t look now Heather, those YELLOW mustard seats might be going bye bye.
https://triblive.com/sports/steelers/no-more-heinz-field-new-name-suggestions-abound-on-social-media/
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Well maybe just the name.
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Steelers stand to make close to $150 million over 20 years in naming rights
That could be Pitts money.
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Nobody would ever pay Pitt that kind of money for naming rights absent the Steelers. Pitt would be lucky if it $15 million for 20 years.
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Pitt could probably get close to $4million a year for ten years. Washington got that just for football. Pitt would get that if multi purpose
Just goes to show what Pitt gives up in revenues by being a renter.
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For those hoping that UPMC gets the naming rights, saline solution from an IV bag filling the scoreboard won’t excite anyone..
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😂😂😂
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Excellent article Maestro…
Big B still needs 2 more players for the golf outing on Aug 10…would be awesome to get POVerts.
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Where? Wlat is interested. If Fran and Big B are involved, in VERY interested.
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Wlat— The event is at the Spring Church golf course near Apollo, PA… About 30 miles from Pittsburgh.
August 10th.
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Where in the heck have Tommy Mac, JoeK, Emel, Pittman4, Warrenpanther and a few others been? At least check in and let us know you’re still with us. We all care.
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Hey Mr. Michelangelo Monteleone. Thanks so much for reminding me of this PITT football camp being right around the corner. wink wink nod nod ……;)
Another great job by you Mike. Thanks for your fine work and a job well done.
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JoeNnew… Randy, are you interested in joining us next Saturday for some golf… team you wit JoeL…. you Joes were the 1st POVerts I MET BACK AT THE MILITARY BOWL.
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Bernie, I would love to play with you guys, however, the gout made a surprise visit this weekend, and I don’t need to tell you what that means. Thanks so much for thinking of me, and if a miracle happens, I’ll get back to you. Meeting you and Reed ( as well as the magnet ) was indeed the highlight of that trip!
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I’ll second the vote for Chase Pine as breakout player. I think Pine and Reynolds are the best two linebackers. In order to get them both on the field they shifted Pine to the outside because Reynolds can’t play on the outside.
My other:
Hargrove – can’t really say Pitt is replacing four OL, Hargrove started the last three against great competition. That is serious experience gained.
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Pitt NonCon BB schedule announced
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where’s Duquesne … shouldn’t they be there on 12/5 or 12/6?
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Duquesne is out this season due to Pitt agreeing to play at Bobby Mo’s new BB arena…
Go Pitt.
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Not playing Duquesne anymore.
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Not exactly a Jamie Dixon schedule…
Go Pitt.
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Hey TX, I don’t know how accurate the info is, but I heard on the radio today that Clint Hurdle is the fifth highest paid manager in MLB.
I can’t believe with the way he manages he’d be anywhere near the top, but that’s what someone said…
If true, how’s that for not getting your money’s worth?
Go Pitt.
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I saw him in Texas when he was with the Rangers. Fans were glad when he left. Hurdle needs to go. But it’s that Hoopies money that owns the Pirates and he’s only stealing from fans and not students. narduzzi looks like a bargain compared to that turd.
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Dixon would have Pitt buy him about ten wins in the OOC. He was always 12-0 heading into big east play and then only had to go slightly better than .600 in conference play to get an invite and good seed.
Howland planted the oak seed that grew into a nice sapling. Dixon nurtured it and it took off and became a strong tree. But towards the end he forgot to trim and water that tree. It was Unhealthy when Stallings got it and he then killed it. I hope Pitt used the wood for some wine or bourbon barrels.
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agree that Dixon always played a soft pre-season but his BE record was exemplary. From Dixon’s Wikipedia page … He is the first and only head coach in Pitt’s history to lead his team to seven consecutive NCAA tournament appearances. At the end of the 2010 season, Dixon is the winningest coach in Big East history with a current .721 winning percentage in eight seasons of league games (98-38). He also stands second on Pitt’s all-time wins list, behind only the legendary Doc Carlson.
And please don’t tell that BE basketball when Dixon coached was like the ACC Coastal last year!
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TX – you have me thinking of Chauncey Gardiner in “Being There”.
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The gardener. Maybe Capel is our Peter Sellers.
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Dixon was only 28-26 in the ACC though. He wasn’t able to recruit the type of athlete needed for this league and he knew it hence his opposition to the move. He left Stallings with two ACC caliber players. Stallings then left Capel with zero.
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Here you go my friend big Dan…….
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Randy… great to hear from you… kick that gouts ass.. I get it too… usually associated wit too much seafood- shrimp red meat and ETOH… JoeL and BigAl were coming but got the date wrong for the event so it’s a no go for 2 more…
Coming up for the opener , UCF and Tarheel games … you gotta make one of those and give a heads up- I’ll bring you a great piece of been, 5 lbs of local shrimp and have some libations wit you… You have to provide the allopurinol… See you at red parking lot 5A…You pick the date
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been … should be beef
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Virginia are the odds on favorite to win the Coastal this year and PITT picked to finish 5th. Myself? I’d much rather be in PITT’s position right now. UVA has to play PITT in Pittsburgh on National TV. Not saying PITT wins the game but I like their chances in this one. ONE BIG GAME!!
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No doubt IKE, the opener is friggin’ huge. Personally, I think UVA is getting way too much attention. I love PITT in that game.
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Breaks me up I won’t be down there for the Fran tailgate and the game……. I’ll be there in spirit ten fold!!
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OT, but great read on Pitt BB IN The Athletic:
https://theathletic.com/1089342/2019/07/30/jeff-capels-rebuild-at-pitt-is-as-much-about-whats-happening-off-the-court-as-on-it/
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Rarely has an opener been so important. If Heather can’t sell that game out something is wrong. There should be a massive campaign with all WPA high schools to get the high school players, coaches, parents to this game. A dollar a seat for upper level is better than yellow…
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Sheldon Jeter led the USA to a Gold Medal in the Pan Am three-on-three games in Lima Peru. He had 8 points which is impressive since the game was to 21.
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Want proof that I’m not always “negative”?
I think UVA is overrated (I guess that’s me being “negative” towards the Cavs) and Pitt breaks the trend of blowing opportunities to be relevant. Pitt wins the opener close.
But.. Pitt gets pounded by PSU (Damn!) and gos 6-6 for the season. Miami wins the Coastal. Damn! I guess I am negative.
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Nice synopsis at PSN of players to keep an eye on who may emerge come this season from the freshman and sophomore ranks.
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One of the “names we may have forgotten” that I find a bit intriguing is. #87 Habakkuk Baldonado, DL (6’5″, 250), redshirt freshman:
Played in only one game last season so he kept his redshirt. Baldonado is a player that started playing football late, only playing one season in the United States.
Has the body to be a big-time DE – have wondered if he is developing…
Go Pitt.
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he is reminiscent of Greg Romeus who also started football late; a tall, lean basketballer who played HS in FL.and neither rated highly. It isn’t fair to compare Baldonaro to Romeus at this point but there is something to say about athletic linemen. (TJ Clemmings, Brian O’Neill)
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And Baldonado had 30.5 sacks and 9 forced fumbles in his senior year.
Anyone know what level he played in Fla HS?
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Fran — I remember reading that Baldonado did not play a high level of competition in HS. But it also seemed that several schools got interested in him late in the recruiting process – probably just because of his size…
Go Pitt.
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Missing / Eric, check your email or call me re the golf outing in Apollo.
724-309-4343.
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If you are still looking for a guy for the golf outing in Apollo give me a call 412-965-5231.
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Baldonado also reflects the depth that Narduzzi has developed in many areas. The second and third string guys are no longer way behind the starters and are now much more ready to succeed when called on.
Many of the starters are going to be pushed from behind this year. You can also see this in the number of battles for starting positions. This has not been the case for a long time.
The naysayers will point out that this may be because the starters aren’t that good, and that may be true of the O-line and possibly linebackers, we just have to wait and see. But we are certainly far ahead at QB, D-line and d-back positions than we have been in some time. We really were struggling at these positions for depth as long as I can remember.
Of course tight end stands out as a weakness from top to bottom, with all of the defections.
Narduzzi seems to be relying less on transfers and hopefully in the future will use them to improve positions rather than fill positions of dramatic need.
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Here is your depth:
https://pittsburghsportsnow.com/2019/07/30/pitt-football-names-you-might-have-forgotten-about/
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BTW, Pitt women’s BB is recruiting Gabby Elliot, a 5-Star wing from Detroit. Pitt made her final six, along with UNC, Maryland, Clemson, Minnesota, and Marquette…
Coach White is casting a wide net – one incoming freshman played for the Netherlands national team, another played for Greece.
Coach White will have 7 new faces on the team this season. In his first class, he filled needs with some decent sounding 3-star-type players. In his second class, it looks like he’s shooting for more elite talent…
Go Pitt.
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Coach White has a good shot at her. I am a women’s basketball maven as my daughter played for the MD State Basketball 2A champs…. then at Carlow. I’ve know of Coach White for years and attended his camps. Pitt will challenge top 20 in 2 years under his guidance! Wish Duzz had one tenth his charm!
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Just saw where Curtis Martin will be the keynote speaker at the Pitt FB Kickoff Luncheon on August 23rd.
Nice.
Last year it was Louis Riddick – he was cool…
Go Pitt.
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Nice. Any word if the administration from the early 90s will be there and apologize personally to Curtis for neglecting football and him having to play on bad teams?
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I know there aren’t too many Curtis Martin’s or Shady McCoy’s out there, but I think we have to start recruiting this style of runner – the guys who can change direction in a flash and not lose speed…
Go Pitt.
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^^ Nate “the steve” is banned from two states. Nebraska and Pennsylvania so no, he will not be attending. Yes I know Curtis Martin was gone before “the steve” came to PITT but I couldn’t resist. He wouldn’t come anyways, he’ll be too busy looking at himself in the mirror that day.. and the next day and the next day and the etc etc etc….
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Gordon..please email me at bblystone12@gmail.com…need to get back to you regarding the up-coming golf tournament in Apollo next Saturday. heard you are interested.Would love to have you join in.
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John. Are you attending the luncheon?
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Fran — yes, I’m going along with my wife, my Air Force son, and my wife’s cousin – she’s been a Pitt fan for a long time.
The event is a bit corny but I enjoy it. One year I got to sit with Mallorie Winn of the women’s BB team. When I complimented her on her buzzer-beater shots, she looked at me in shock that I knew who she was… Didn’t hurt that she was a doll…😊
Last year I wished Coach Duzz luck and told him we need to win a bowl game. He said “We’re not settling for a bowl game, we’re going to win the Coastal.” My son was a witness.
Go Pitt.
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#87… “Kukass” Baldonado… the human tornado…. my new favorite PITT Panther…
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Try to top that one Savannah… got my game face on today…..
UVA game… time to start the tailgate Pre-game planning… what day you lastrow??? To we need to start in the film room watching ‘18 tailgate action???
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I’ve already been reviewing film Bernie. You have a hitch in your delivery of Crown. But like Bernie Kosar’s throws, somehow it gets to the right spot.
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I sure as heck hope there is much better weather for the tailgates and games this year. Last year was not good. Except the Albany game which I did not attend. ah oh.. it was me….
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the GT game was good weather also ,,,, but that’s about it
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That’s right Bill, another game I wasn’t able to attend. You should all call me the rain maker…..
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Biggie, head count 2 weeks out will determine plans for food and drinks.
I know Wolfe and Scooter will join me jockeying for position for the parking spots in Red 5A five hours before kickoff.
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AtlantaPanther will have our new Crowns on site… we might put on our white gloves and get the 2018 Coastal Champion Crown out of their storage case and have them at the tailgates for photo-ops with the POVert nation… I heard Doug Mundrick had a few guzzles left in his Crown jug… mine is bone dry… finished it trying to help our boys regain their mojo during last years season ending 3 GAME LISING STREAK!!!! new season new Crown 1/2 gallon…. taking each game 1 shot at a time…..
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You type like you’ve been drinking, you liser.
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Reason # 983 why it is so hard fielding a college FB team in Pgh …
if you tune into the local classic rock station any morning this week to hear The Who, Zeppelin or Skynyrd (for the 8,000th time) , you will instead hear WDVE live from Steeler camp
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I MUCH prefer Skynyrd 8001 over the Stiller coverage at this time.
Plus DVE plays the same 50 songs over and over.
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that’s why I wrote for the 8000th time. I used to like Sweet Home Alabama, Gimme 3 Steps, and Freebird;, and Stairway to Heaven, Dazed and Confused, and Kashmir, etc … years ago. Now I don’t ever need to hear them again ever
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91.3 for me in the car.
I still subscribe to Napster, that way I can get my oldie fix at home as well.
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Sirius for me Ike…
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Hey ike, I’m with you on WYEP. Favorite local station for music
In my car, I have XM/Sirius and listen to Deep Tracks, Outlaw country, Real Jazz and BB King Blues as well as College Sports.
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Im a Spotify guy.
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I use to subscribe and listened to a lot of Sirius when working. Don’t know much about spotify Joe but the music talk and preferences remind me a lot of PITT football. No right or wrong answers, just personal opinions.
Anyone like Joe Walsh, here he sums up my life pretty in a song.
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I saw an article saying that Tepper wants to build a retractable roof stadium for the Carolina Panthers within the next 10 years … doubt he will be making a big donation to Pitt for a retractable roof sradium between now and then
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Yep
https://www.wbtv.com/2019/07/31/carolina-panthers-owner-david-tepper-wants-new-retractable-roof-stadium/?outputType=amp
Stole that idea from me. 🙂
He wants the super bowl. And he’s a big soccer fan
I wonder if he wants to host World Cup games in 2026
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Retrofitting older stadiums with retractable roofs is possible but it depends on the existing design. Heinz wouldn’t be cost effective.
Steelers will be forced to build a new stadium. Remember they also want to host a super bowl and see how their justification can be easier made for public financing if it just wasn’t for the Steelers and not just for football.
But new stadiums with this functionality will become the future standard. Few stadiums even being built now don’t at least cover the seating from the elements.
https://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Journal/Issues/2014/06/02/Facilities/Roofs-main.aspx
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BTW, tomorrow is the start of PITT camp. Hooray! No more video’s, it’s time to get Sirius or Spotify. Steelers practicing at Latrobe stadium Friday night. I’m not going myself but is anyone coming to town?
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Bernie – you are hard to beat when you have your game face on.
The only thing I can come up with is:
Habakuk’s name portends coach’s receding hairline in 10 years – ” Baldo Nardo”
I’ll do better – camp will get the juices flowing!!
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On the eve of fall camp, here are 15 predictions that I am counting on…
1) Optimism abound;
2) Narduzzi mentioning the Coastal Championship several dozen times, but silence on the UNC Tar Heels;
3) Narduzzi needling Jerry DiPaola and media puff pieces loaded in the hard drive as no beat writer really has any access or information unless it is strategically leaked;
4) The obligatory references to silly motivational team slogans…”Lock the Gates,” “Turn Out the Lights,” “Flip the Switch,” “Take It,” “The Pursuit,” “Win a Bowl Game” maybe I added one in there;
5) A robotic mantra of, “taking things 1 game at a time, especially in preparation for the conference opener with UVA”;
6) Insert name here _________ of junior or senior that….”is going to have a breakout year”;
7) People on this blog overreacting and expecting a “breakout season next year,” when Narduzzi purposefully mentions a young backup by name to push a veteran with no threat of losing his job;
8) Reports that, “Kenny Pickett and the offense are ready to take a step forward this season under Coach Whipple”;
9) When Kenny Pickett has a bad day, reports that “Nick Patti was hitting his targets out there” or Jeff George (not the #96 version) was “throwing with some great touch on the deep ball.”
10) Narduzzi shocking everyone with the annual attempt to motivate an under the radar player through the media. For example, “Mychale Salahuddin may be the most talented RB I’ve coached in 30 years,” which will ultimately lead to absurd expectations and a feeling of unfulfilled promise when he graduates;
11) Reports that Borberly and Bates are “optimistic in their 2nd year as players have had a year of experience learning their systems.”
12) Heaping praise on the strength and conditioning program;
13) References to camaraderie, brotherhood, and chemistry among this year’s group AND “embracing the role of the underdog”;
14) Gushing over new uniforms and logos; and
15) Narduzzi’s defense, “finally has the personnel in place to make some noise in the ACC.”
I’ll throw in a bonus prediction…some media outlet (probably PSN) will pen a kitschy, “What Kirk Christodoulou did on his trip to the Outback this Summer.”
I will also miss the annual piece from Reed spewing anger at Narduzzi’s lack of access for the media, and his frustration that he can’t evaluate the quarterbacks in 10 minutes of watching stretching. HAHAHA
I’m thinking maybe a drinking game or a 4×4 bingo card. First person to get a blackout gets a dinner from UPitt. It should be noted that he welched on that dinner for Pitt hitting 7 wins last year!
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LOL! Dallas, you remarkably remind me of another Texas poster 🙂
Narduzzi did promise a coastal division championship last year. He delivered.
I did get a, “you were right ike” from Mark. < about the 7 wins. I’m real sure Upitt would be glad to buy you that dinner, he ain’t cheap.
Reed has folded and thrown in his cards. That’s too bad. Maybe if PITT loses their first 3 or 4 games??
Good post Dallas Tx
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That there is funny!
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Bruce…Haba Mean Streak …. or as I would say to you “ GABA cold Coors light savannah…. Haba great POVerts… heading to bed… enjoy the Black moon for you star-gazers!
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auto correct GABA translates to Haba……
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I would come to Latrobe Friday Ike but I’m playing in a golf outing sponsored by local craft breweries.
It’s called the “Brew HaHa”
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I’ll keep a light on for you Fran when you get half a chance. Have a blast buddy.
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Thanks Ike…
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Mike – I bought your wife that dinner I owed you. Haha. Home tomorrow night. Let’s hang I’m kidless for 6 nights.
Great post but sadly true
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Fayette County humor mixed in with a little Texas is the best!
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Qadree Ollison… “Welcome to the NFL!”
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A reason for Pitt Fans to tune into to tonight’s Hall of Fame Game from Canton.
Should get an immediate impression of how Ollison’s skill set translates to the next level.
Ollison has shown flashes during camp. Right now, he’s being projected as the main Back Up to Starter Devonta Freeman who has battled injuries throughout his career.
I’ve called Ollison probably Pitt’s all-time UNDER-RATED Running Back. He was my clear choice as the one Pitt Player to hear his name called at the Draft.
But DURABILITY remains my major concern with Ollison who tends to take the brunt of blows based on the way he runs with the football.
Tonight, we get our first look.
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One thing for sure, there’s not a single Back on Pitt’s current roster with Ollison’s talent.
And that’s unfortunate.
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How would we know? Hall & Ollison gobbled up all the playing time last year.
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You are correct, a few have more talent!
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It’s called tape.
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Must be something in the water in Texas.
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Bourbon?
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Tequila?
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Dr. Tom we will be ok at RB if the line can open some holes…maybe a more balanced O will contribute to the running game this year-onus on KP..we just don-t have that big bruiser like Q-man and Conner which we became used to. Maybe we are just out of our comfort zone because of change and the unknown…but it’s a new season with new faces…we will learn alot August 31..(coming to the Hoos 1st hand)
Annie, where have you been…what’s for desert at the tailgate after be take the Hoos behind the woodshed? Does anyone else like chocolate chip cookies with beer besides me?
Commander, anxiously awaiting your take on things.”let’s get it started” the season that is.
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Dessert, Bernie? I was planning to bring the famous Prantl’s burnt almond torte cake.
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Still have my fingers crossed that Narduzzi doesn’t come out and tell us that these are the players that have been suspended and or left the team. It happens every year.
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Check out PSN…William Fralic award for the best offensive linemen in each division of the WPIAL..looks like some PITT men are involved as judges…
If PITT were smart they would work with our highly publicized greats and follow-up with more reward to locals. Fitz, Revis, Conner/Dorsett and AD to come to mind. Would cost little to nothing and give PITT some much needed positive PR….
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Pitt is ONE scholarship over the limit at this point. It will be interesting to see how Narduzzi handles that problem.
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5 Questions.
https://triblive.com/sports/5-questions-surrounding-pitt-football-as-training-camp-opens/
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PoD- thanks for the link. Good article by JD.
Go Pitt.
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My answers…
If winning 6 Games and his first Bowl Game qualifies… then Yes.
With Whipple’s “Quick Hit” Offense and Carson Van Lynn in the Starting Lineup… then Yes.
Early on, Sibley much more likely than Davis. Later on, already on the record with the “C&C Run Factory” of V’Lique and Daniel.
Yes, especially if he gets tabbed to fill the all-important Slot position in the Whipple Offense.
And Yes. But Randy Bates and not Narduzzi the one deserving of the credit!
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Jerry said double digit wins isn’t too much to expect for fans given its narduzzis 5th year. I spit out my coffee when I read that.
Five years ago, I expected ten wins at this point. But most publications and fans don’t expect anywhere close to ten wins this year
This could be a very long year. But Pitt could also win eight plus bowl means nine. It all comes down to QB play.
Is Whipple a QB whisperer. Will the line protect Kenny and open holes
I don’t see the D winning any games but I don’t see them losing any
I expect every game this season to be close. But will Pitt get the breaks this year or did Pitts luck run out. Could be many three point losses or three point wins.
Seven wins I see
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I agree TX. I see a lot of close games also. That’s why special teams are so important. Flipping the field and FG kicking will be key in several contests IMO.
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Todd Sibley is quite the mystery player — as in, has anyone ever really seen him? 😊
I remember being impressed with his Marion-Motley-ish thighs (for you youngsters under about 70, that means really big thighs. And, BTW, Marion Motley was one of the greatest FB players of all time…)
Todd Sibley is listed as 220 pounds, but he’s only 5’9” — so he will be our “power” tailback…
Anxious to see what he can do.
Go Pitt.
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5′ 9″ and 220 is hard to find behind a lineman and hard to bring down.
Plus he has some speed.
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Sibley is a mystery. Seems like he’s been here forever.
Always looks in camp highlights then is never seen or heard from again.
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Just not a believer in Davis. Wasn’t crazy about his high school highlights. Haven’t been impressed with anything at Pitt including the Spring Game.
I think a bit of a Pretender.
On the other hand, at the Spring Game, Sibley seemed to show at least a willingness to run hard with a bit of power and burst.
Hopefully, Davis will live up to the expectations some others have of him.
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Coaches must really hate narduzzi. I would have expected more than zero votes. Cuse getting too much love. Virginia getting little. Penn State overrated as usual.
https://sports.yahoo.com/clemson-tops-alabama-in-first-coaches-poll-of-the-year-155850127.html
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Coaches don’t hate Narduzzi, but when your returning QB had a less than stellar(I’m being kind) sophmore season and you lose 2 1000 yard plus running backs running behind another revamped OL you shouldn’t expect to get too many votes.
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well nearly 60 teams got votes including Temple and Duke. Are u tellin me that Pitt isnt better than those 2?
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Let’s face it. Pitt is never going to get any respect from anybody until they prove it on the field. I don’t know why it is that way, but that’s the way it is.
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lets see if the sportswriters give Pitt at least 1 vote. theres just no way that 60 schools are better than Pitt at this point. I would have Virginia ranked higher than Syracuse but I’d place Virginia around 25. I’d place Pitt around 35 going into the season.
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They will get some decent votes after the take VA to the woodshed on August 31st. These are some of the same voters that had Pitt slotted for 5th place in the Coastal last season.
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good link to read from Chas at the Blather. He’s come out of retirement to discuss basketball. I didnt realize that Pitt had allowed the Pete to go to pot much like old Pitt Stadium. At least these facility issues are being addressed with Capel in place since he brought it to Heathers attention on Day 1. See recent article from the ‘Athletic’.
http://www.pittblather.com/2019/07/31/capel-year-zero-a-brief-rewind-and-going-forward/
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Man that guy can write. Good to see he’s back on the beat
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Agreed. Love your perspective too.
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Heather: ‘Facilities matter. Facilities tell your story’.
So what does it say that Pitt is one of literally just a handful of schools that play football off campus in a rental facility?
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Just testing the waters here…let me know if you are interested in playing golf the day before the opener.
Maybe mid morning.
Send me an email …
lokarfr@gmail.com
Missing Wlat and JoeL showed interest so far.
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Fran, I could be a possibility as I am coming to the game but pending if I can get up there by Friday morning…new baby coming 8/26-probably…..
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PoD..i read the trib article “5 questions”….this blog is more informative and we have talked all of those points and more …”I love this bar(blog).-my kinda place.”
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Heinz Field for PITT football? Not so great for the students. Yet it’s not bad for the fans and tailgating. I like and would rather have an on campus stadium for PITT, that doesn’t make Heinz Field a dump. South-side practice facilities for the PITT football team? A cut above. Lot’s and lots of P-5 football teams would love to have a setup like PITT has.
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ike – thats crazy talk
few if any P-5 schools would kill for the Pitt football facilities…shared and off campus
first – Pitt’s practice facilities are not significantly better than most P-5 schools and in may cases they are far worse since they are shared and cannot solely cater to college kids and what they want…see Clemson and LSU
second – Pitt’s facilities are off campus which present logistical problems for both players and students. Talk to most Pitt students and they would prefer not to be bused. Talk to most football players and they prefer not to be bused everywhere. See what Wanny had to say about this matter back in the 90’s.
Pitt allowed the Pete to become second rate. Those arent my words…those are Capels. This goes to show that Pitt hasnt learned from its mistakes and does not take sports seriously. Read that Athletic article. Its an indictment on Pitt sports and its leadership. Even the homer Dokish said so.
Heinz has always been a dump since it was built. Cheap design.
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Yet many people clamor to build an on campus stadium right around Hazelwood.
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my point is that practically no P-5 school would trade positions with Pitt. if they did, their AD would be fired.
the only thing Heinz offers is the amenities. the southside facilities are really just average these days when you compare them to what the elite college schools are doing.
and Pitt will never be able to make significant changes to facilities they do not own and must share
its inexcusable how Pitt let the Pete decay. Tells me the mindset hasnt changed one damn bit. Pitt really has no business in P-5 if it thinks that way and doesnt care. I credit Capel for calling Pitt out.
Front porch was a BS word
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Couple things Tx
I agree on the Pete
PITT did make big and significant changes to the south-side facilities after Narduzzi got there.
Plus I don’t buy the fact that most P-5 schools wouldn’t want what PITT has. It’s a matter of opinion.
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u and i can disagree on the football side
my proof is what AD has ever said that off campus facilities or shared facilities are a good thing…well besides Cornhole?
many schools would kill for the amenities at Heinz but they would be over-shadowed by the facility being off campus; Plus Heinz is too small for about 30 teams, right size for maybe 10, and too large for everyone else including Pitt
and I really think sharing practice facilities with the Stillers is way over-rated
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I think the main problem with the practice facilities is the lack of room to expand…
Instead of being stuck between a rock and a hard place, you’re stuck between the train tracks and the Mon…
Go Pitt.
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Hey Fran, sounds like retirement is settling in nice with you. No question mark there as it was a statement. Enjoy friend!
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D’ante Thomas 4 star wide receiver from here in Baltimore decommits from State Penn. Pitt in the mix!
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If whipple sticks around for any length of time we are going to be both running back and wide receiver U
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And AARP U
You have to love the same talk every year. 2 years ago it was Watson is the great white hope.
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Watson’s offense won the Coastal Mark. I know I know, it was weak. Never the less he was fired and replaced.
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By a Cheap Option who is 87. He coached Umass in Football. That doesn’t made you cringe?
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He may be 87 but he’s still better than Watson was at 50-something
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Time will tell, but this looks to be a really good hire.
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Sports Illustrated recently rated Pitt as number 6 for “Running Back U” (based on recent years)
H2P!!! Ready for some football!!!
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More on the Whipple Effect or as UPitt might say… the “Pappy Playbook.”
https://pittsburghsportsnow.com/2019/08/01/vukovcan-whipples-offense-key-to-pitt-repeating-as-coastal-champs/
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Bud Foster retiring at end of this season… 60 yrs old!
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Welp…last chance to run up the score!
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We put a few dents in that lunchbox of his.
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Quadre Ollison number 32 for Atlanta
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You can tell the national perception and internal commitment of an entire school towards athletics when there is an opening for AD and NO sitting P5 school AD applies.
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Qadree Ollison makes his NFL debut.
Unless I missed something, limited to being “Safety Valve” on 3rd Down and blocking on Punt Protection.
Expect him to get the ball in the 2nd Half.
Let’s find out just how talented Pitt’s All-Time UNDERRATED Running Back actually is.
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Three things:
1), no U in Qadree
2), Watched Qadree run the ball once and got rocked
3), I like Qadree and wish him well. I think he will stick….
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Remember those DOUBLE Yellows.
Lol
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You spelled his name correctly PoD. Maybe you should stick to the back roads? LOL!
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One for you PoD.. LOL!
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If golf is early and close to Pittsburgh, I might join in. When you have the details Fran, let me know.
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You got it Jay…
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UPitt, Nick Saban, Bill Belichek and Mack Brown all are 67. Coach K, is 72, Roy Williams is 69, Boeheim is 74, and Leonard Hamilton is 70. Jim Hueber, Chryst’s OL coach who received a lot of praise here, was in his mid 60s while at Pitt. And right now, the 2 favorites for presidential candidates in the upcoming election will be in their md and late 70s.
I know, when I was a young whippersnapper like you, I would look down on us AARPers but now, while I can’t drive a golf ball much more than 200, I feel I am much wiser than I ever was
PS – Warren Buffet is 88 and Robert Kraft is 78, and neither have seen to slow down much
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and Dame Shirley Bassey was 76 when she performed at the Academy Awards
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Here you go Bill and Mark… This song works.
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And Whipple wouldnt make a pimple on anynof their azzes.
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Ripping on Whipples age is ridiculous as wwb stated above. It is irrelevant.
You can rip on him coming from UMASS if you also think Joe Morehead from freaking Fordham and Neil Brown from Troy are stupid hires. I can name tons of other examples.
If you follow college football teams other than Pitt, you know coaches come from smaller schools all the time. Saying that is a negative is just looking desperately for something negative to say.
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LOL. They went cheap on someone no one elae wanted. Compare him to the fks you compared him to is hilarious. He hasn’t achieved any of that. Umass is a joke and we hire the guy.
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He’s not the HC. He is the OC…big difference. What does PITT, or the PITT O have to do this year for you to say he was at least a decent, if not good hire?
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Win 10 games
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a blend of youth and experience serves any team well
youth can bring new innovative ideas
experience can bring pragmatism
its a good ying and yang and can produce results
without it, the circle is not complete
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Everything in moderation, including moderation.
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NoR if you are referring to me regarding my Bud Foster age comment, I was referring to how young he is… I am pushing 68 and still on the job putting 40-50 hrs a weak in…. maybe PITT or Fuentes took the joy away from him….. looking forward to Pappy Whips “O.” Age doesn’t relate to ability if he is healthy… the problem arises { Watson) when there is something lacking.. I am all for giving people a chance… but I do love a good nickname… keep’em coming UPitt !
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I was not referring to you.
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You’re the man Bernie. I am hoping to at least cut back by 65.
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BTW and for the record. Mr Whipple is 62 years young.
1980
St. Lawrence (Assistant)
1981–1982
Union (OC)
1983
Brown (WR)
1984
Arizona Wranglers (OQC/QB)
1986–1987
New Hampshire (OC)
1988–1993
New Haven
1994–1997
Brown
1998–2003
UMass
2004–2006
Pittsburgh Steelers (QB)
2008
Philadelphia Eagles (assistant)
2009–2010
Miami (FL) (AHC/OC/QB)
2011–2012
Cleveland Browns (QB)
2014–2018
UMass
2019–present
Pittsburgh (OC/QB)
His overall head coaching record is 137-102
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Never let the facts get in the way of a good sound bite.
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I don’t get it… What’s your point?
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hyperbolic statement that Pappy is 87 and ike giving facts.
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That is crazy talk Joe. What facts that he is atrocious and over the hill? Only Pitt hires a guy like this and people get excited. 4th OC in 5 years.
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I see where Ollison had 6 carries and averaged 2 yards with a long of 4 yards.
Caught 1 pass for 3 yards.
Go Pitt.
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More importantly how did he account for himself on special teams? The falcons run blocking is legendarily bad…
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I read where Aston played too.
Go George Aston!
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I see Dick Lebeau retired last year at the age of 80. He was DC for the Steelers from age 65 thru 76, and then was DC for the Titans
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And he actually won and didnt look like Burl Ives in a christmas special. You guys comparing old successful people to old not successful people is funny.
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Bill Snyder just retired as HC at 79, He won 79 games in his final 10 years which is darn good for a place like Kansas State
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That’s because K-State is smarter than Pitt when it comes to running its athletics. A down year for Snyder was no biggie. A 7-5 season for Wannstedt and heads needed to roll because Pitt fans were owed BCS bids at that time because Dorsett and Marino once played in Oakland.
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Wannstedt wasn’t playing OK, OSU, and Texas every year.
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Neither did Chryst and he was a God to most Pitt fans yet Wannstedt was a bum.
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K State gave Snyder plenty to try and win: allow questionable kids into school, recruiting budget, facility upgrades and stayed patient despite a few 5-plus loss seasons. Pitt is way below K State at running athletics wisely is my point.
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Mark/UPitt – I’ve left instructions with my kids to follow the POV after Im gone and bust your “chops” for being an old fart …which you will be at some point.
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Joe there are tons of old people That are succesfull. So everybody and their mother on here naming successful old people is ridiculous. I’m aware or people can be successful and game changers. The problem is pappy Vanwinkle has never been successful in many on here are counting on him to change 30 years of mediocrity
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That’s not true Mark. Whipple won a national championship at UMass.
“In 1994, he was hired by his alma mater to serve as head football coach at Brown University, where he spent the next four seasons. While at Brown, his 1997 squad set Ivy League and school records for total offense (474.3 yards per game) which included a single-game record of 629 yards against Yale. His 1995 team set several single-season records including most points (282), total offense (4,165 yards), passing offense (2,502 yards) and first downs (227).
In his first stint as coach of UMass from 1998 to 2003,[3] he won the NCAA Division I-AA national title in his first season at the school.[3] His UMass teams rewrote the record books, setting more than 40 team records. In 1998 his national championship team posted school records in points scored (524), touchdowns (73), total yards (7,074), passing yards (4,050), completions (306), and first downs (354)”
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Ike
This was twenty years ago in a different era and league
All I hope is that Whipple can help Kenny gain confidence and place him in situations to succeed.
The man knows quarterbacks as good as Walt. That’s what Pitt needs. So I don’t fault the hire but it’s not like Pitts offense will be creative or innovative. It will be more passing oriented though. And they will take more risks in play calling.
Should have listened to us Texans on Watson though. However Whipple is not an obvious bad hire. He’s actually a good fit at this moment. But Pitt better be grooming a young replacement. Our version of dabo.
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We shall see Tx, we shall see.
All things considered, Narduzzi’s resume was just as good as Dabo’s. Now the results are more about the money Clemson puts into their program. Apples and Oranges.
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Plus a beautiful stadium on campus. Not a rent a center garbage heinz. Plus hot southern woman.
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There you go Mark, talking about Tx wife again. 🙂
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I’m just having a bit of fun with you for the oldster comments. All in good fun.
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I know buddy. I’m cranky today. 7 hour delay in orlando last night. Landed at 3:30am.
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Haha…wish I would have thought of that JoeL.
Not mean spirited. I like and appreciate UPitt.
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Biggie is pretty spry for 68…I’ve seen him dance!
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Rumor is he taught Michael Jackson the moonwalk
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Like I said many times JoeL, if I had a surfer boys a$$… I would have been a Chippendale not a Physical Therapist…
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I think I prefer that you are a PT Biggie, I would be uncomfortable being good friends with a Chippendale.
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I see where Mark comes from and I don’t disagree or agree and what folks say on here never ruffle my feathers with comments. I just accept the reality of what we have to work with… we had to pretty good OCs in Canada and Chubs(
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Hit the post button too soon… We had to pretty good OCs in Matt Canada and Chubs Chaney ( I thought he sucked at PITT)… PITT is always going to be PITT ( just ask Reed) Maybe someday we schedule lighter and get those 9-10 wins and stArt recruiting better and become a consistent top 25… Heck, look at Clemson( excluding attendance) through much of their history the were a lower tier team. Danny Ford elevated the team ( we annialated them in the Gator Bowl) They hire an assistant named Dabo ….now whoever heard of a little ole country boy named Dabo on here before he became a HC… it can be done…
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Dabo was known as a great recruiter and carried with him an offensive mind. That’s what you need to succeed in the ACC.
Pitt hires the exact opposite as their profile.
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Whaaat?? William Christopher “Dabo” Swinney was hired as a head coach for Clemson and was a lowly asst coach at the time. Impossible, who does that?
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Looks like someone left a playbook under a chair in the team room and a PG reporter (not Jerry D. ) picked it up…
Interesting situation.
Someone’s going to be in the doghouse…
Go Pitt.
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It was probably Pickett
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Note that both Pgh paper beat writers are PSU alums now. Pitt alum, Brian Backo moved to the Steelers’ beat and was replaced by Nitter John Magonical who was the PSU beat writer for the Centre Daily Times
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Good thing nobody from Virginia was in the house to pickup that playbook.
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jrn, Reed Kohberger, a retired Military Officer couldn’t infiltrate the Narduzzi barrier, how could some slub from Virginia do it?
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first day at summer camp and the depth chart posted above has already appeared to change. Mich transfer Nolan Ulizio has moved into right tackle and Gabe Huoy moved to right guard. More changes likely ahead
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I see Whipple is declared an “old man” at 62 years of age by some on this board. Anyone want to ask Andy Isaballa about how the old man helped or hurt him in his decision to matriculate at U of Mass.
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Some people live to be miserable.
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Press conference
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I see I see, Narduzzi just hammering the media.
It sounds like Hamlin left a notebook of some kind under Jerry’s chair and Narduzzi refutes that it was a playbook.
Lot’s of great interviews from the PITT players today. Mike has lots of fodder.
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I only listened to a couple of today’s player interviews (Morrisey, Sibley) but I’m always impressed with how mature and well-spoken the Pitt players are.
I liked what Todd Sibley said — that the RB are much more involved with the passing game under Coach Whipple.
And Coach Borbs — casually using some salty language — said last year he had 5 guys and the rest weren’t ready: said this year’s a different story, there is some depth. But he pointed out that we’re missing a senior class – the guys that should be starting…
Go Pitt.
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1) V-Lique moved to wideout. (not a shock to me)
2) Balance on offense desired (not a shock)
3) OL more athletic this year
4) AJ Davis and Sibley from spring camp, and Salahuddin is now healthy but will be brought in slowly
5) 6 LBs vying for starters – wide open
6) Jake Scanlon (holder and back-up kicker) moved on ”’ kicker Alex Kessman will pick the holder from a handful of candidates
7) TE Will Gragg is about 250 lb, up from 220 when he came here
8} players do scan the internet to see what’s being written about them … Chris Peak referenced
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I’m sure coaches read this blog to see what’s being written about them as well.
I’m sure they get irked by the endearing names we give them.
Wonder what Pappy thinks of his.
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Actually Tx, take a closer listen to Narduzzi presser today. He mentions Chris Peak and Rivals by name. Yeah, they read message boards and blogs…..
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Coach Borbs says there is no Senior OL class. Hard to believe none were recruited. Were no OLs recruited by Narduzzi 4 years ago?
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You’re telling me Coach Borbs and Coach Bates and Coach Whipple read this blog?
I think not.
Maybe the younger guys do. The older guys couldn’t give a crap. And I say good for them – they have better things to do…
Go Pitt.
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The older guys are still using rotary phones, and watching reruns of Dallas on tube TVs.
But I’m sure a few coaches take the time to read guys like Peak and may sneak at peek at comments.
But yes they have more pressing matters since we fans are still waiting for a breakout season. And they continue making good money for mediocre results.
They also prefer not to hear the truth regarding their coaching. Commenters can be brutally honest.
If Pappy reads what is said about him, he’d probably be in the hospital.
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TX — even as we ramp up to a new season, you just can’t help yourself…. 😊
Go Pitt.
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seriously coaches have no business reading stuff about them especially on social media sites like blogs. Most of what they hear will be bad but not necessarily fake. negative yes. but often truthful. and these forums are more truthful and honest than anyone in the media because we dont fear loss of press creds and are anonymous.
players will go anywhere for buzz to feed their egos. i dont think they would get much excitement visiting POV though since egos arent stroked, facts are presented and there is some real honest debate. constructive criticism abounds
but, I reserve my name calling for those who deserve my wrath like the university leaders and coaches. Players get a pass from me…until they start getting paid.
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IMO what you refer to as constructive criticism is just opinions from people without access to all the information that is available to the real decision makers.
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Agree, James.
Blogs and the press are irrelevant to the coaches because the coaches know what’s what. Their coaching and recruiting ability is all documented on the video and on the scoreboard — and the video and scoreboard don’t lie.
Go Pitt.
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Majors: coaches do read their press clippings. they do hear about what the TV personalities and certain bloggers say about them and their programs. word does get back to them. do coaches get obsessed with this? some do. do some use media to stroke their egos? you’re damn right some do. and they all play and use the media to their advantage.
but I agree, coaches arent reading blogs and newspapers and social media to pick up on how they need to coach.
they often use the media to justify their decisions and their jobs
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there are facts presented
there are often links provided as proof
and there is of course opinion
but there are facts like Pitt is 28-26 under Narduzzi with no bowl wins and no final rankings
Pitts recruiting this year is still only in the middle of the Coastal pack (look at the % of stars rated 5.7 and above)
facts are that Pitt is one of the lowest revenue producing schools in all of P-5 and have one of the highest subsidies
Pitt finished dead last in the Directors Cup
Pitts facilities for volleyball, gymnastics, swimming and wrestling are among the very oldest in P-5
I dont need access to secret information for those facts
my opinion is that Pitt still to this day has poor leadership and doesnt know how to run a sports business
problem is the decision makers at Pitt dont know how to use facts ad data
If coaches and so called leaders read blogs, they will get depressed because facts are presented. there is constructive criticism. there are brave souls to question leaders and hold them accountable
the truth is discussed and we dont care about being called fake news
i guess all that access to information allowed Pitt to make a great pick in Stallings
I guess access to all that info allowed Narduzzi to have confidence in hiring Watson
I guess all that access to information allowed Pitt to let the Pete decay
what I can research, see, hear and witness is good enough to opine and there is plenty of hard data out there to develop solid recommendations for those decision makers
but again you assume they use info that is hidden from view
Pitt is very secret from disclosing financials to being on record about saying anything in regards to ticket sales or fundraising. and of course Narduzzi closes his practices. but beyond those things, Pitt fans have access to far more info than you think.
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@James, that is always what the ivory tower dwellers use for defense
and it is of course true but they need to be challenged and pushed as they have certainly shown that with all the information they haven’t “figured” it out
or maybe you think they have done and are doing great from Herman to Stevie on back?
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I know that pre season press conferences are easier than those after a loss, but I have to say that to me, Narduzzi looks to be getting better and more comfortable with talking to the press. If he shows similar improvement in coaching and game management maybe things will be looking up.
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