Editor’s Note: I’ve added the Duz and player videos at the end of my initial article. Enjoy

Pat Narduzzi announced a surprise commit from a grad transfer from Maryland today.

DJ Turner is a redshirt senior, who will have two years to play based on the NCAA waiver for this season.

The 5’9″, 203 lb Turner’s receiving resume is limited, but his special teams resume is extensive.

From the official Maryland Football website:

As a Senior (2019): Started in first three games of the season (Howard, 8/31 – at Temple, 9/14), redshirted the rest of the year … Tallied four receptions for 84 yards over the three games … Also returned three punts for 107 yards and a touchdown … Had a career-best 55 yard punt return in fourth quarter at Temple (9/14) … In win over #21 Syracuse (9/7) recorded two receptions for 53 yards, a 29-yard catch and a 24-yarder … Returned a punt 40 yards for a score vs. Howard (8/31) to put Maryland up 42-0 … Was the first Terrapin punt return touchdown since Teldrick Morgan (83 yards) vs. Rutgers on November 26, 2016.

He also won one preseason award:

2020 Athlon Sports Preseason All-Big Ten

He was listed as a 5.8 on Rivals, but oddly enough he had only four offers. Maryland was the only Power 5 school to offer. Could it be more than just a coincidence that one school to offer was UMASS?

Turner does not come to Pitt without baggage (was charged with a DUI after UM’s 59-0 loss to Penn State last year), but as someone who has made mistakes in his life, I personally believe that most people deserve a second chance (with a short leash attached of course). Pitt has a strong locker room culture, so perhaps the change of scenery will be a good thing for Tuner.

Here are the sordid details if you are interested:

Maryland senior wide receiver DJ Turner will not return for the remainder of the 2019 season, head coach Mike Locksley announced Wednesday evening.

Turner was charged with a litany of counts — including driving under the influence — after being pulled over in the early hours of Sept. 20. This occurred during the bye week following the defeat against Temple in Philadelphia. Turner hasn’t seen the field since, though Locksley never announced a formal suspension.

That means Turner has only played three games this season, keeping him eligible for a redshirt year. According to Locksley, Turner and the team plan to take advantage of that opportunity in an effort to keep the veteran pass catcher on the 2020 roster.

“We’re going to utilize the redshirt year that he has to allow him to continue to work on his issues off the field, which he’s doing a great job on,” Locksley said. “We want to keep supporting him as we have been, but we’re going to utilize the redshirt season that he has, and hopefully get him back next year to play.”

Turner did not play many meaningful snaps as a receiver last season, nor the season before.

In 2019 he was targetted nine times and pulled in four receptions, but he did average 21.6 YPC with 11.5 YAC per reception. Can anyone say “sideways pass”?

He had zero drops as well. Although the sample size is pretty small…

Overall he graded out at 58.9 – on the low side of average – but again small sample size.

In 2018 he grabbed 13 balls out of 18 targets, but had three drops. His receiving grade was nearly identical at 58.5…so he didn’t develop as a receiver year over year. That’s too bad.

He’ll make his contribution as a punt returner and maybe as a bubble screen guy in the early going. Hopefully he’ll put some work into learning the route tree and blossom over the course of the season. That would set him up for a nice super-senior year in 2021, and add some much-needed depth and experience to a young receiving corps next season.

Hail to Pitt

Michaelangelo Monteleone

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

163 thoughts on “Updated: To Everything Turn Turn Turner… & Today’s Interviews”

  1. nothing to see here except that the Pitt WR coach Chris Beatty probably recruited this guy to Maryland and can see him as a contributor.

    Like

  2. I’m ok with this addition. Welcome to Pitt DJ –

    Now we need a CB from the portal who can play immediately. There is a 4* CB transfer from Oklahoma with good size – why not if we have the open scholarship.

    Adds two good players for next season too.

    H2P!

    Like

  3. but maybe the bigger news is the reports are now the Big 10 is targeting an October 11 start date Stay tuned

    Like

    1. Thought I also read where only Ohio State and Nebraska cvoted to play FB this fall. THe rest voted against. All you need to know about Sandy Barbour.

      Like

  5. At this time, I think Pitt is now at the 85 scholarship limit. They gave their last two to TE Zilinskas & now LB Petrishen.

    Maybe I am wrong & there is another one out there

    I also think our new WR DJ Turner is a walk-on.

    Like

  6. Unless…….. Something else is brewing on the southside? You think someone else may be thinking out-loud about leaving? We shall see.

    Like

  7. I don’t see any scholarships being available now after the two handed out today and the transfer in of Turner. Pitt’s got plenty of weapons at the WR position now IMO absent many injuries and I really only see Turner being used on special teams and as a return man.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. He might get a package installed for him if he’s good enough but I agree. West coast offense requires WR and QB to be on the same page. Takes time to get there

      Like

      1. After watching some film on Turner I do see some of a Ffrench look a like in him. Knowing how much Whipple used Ffrench last year I can definitely see some of those 1 yard passes to Turner in the Pitt game planing this year. Seeing Addison going out to the right and Turner flowing to the left might give some defensive coordinators something to think about.

        Like

        1. I used to hate that play when DW ran it so many times per game. I researched it back then and found that something like around 5% of those plays gained more than 10 yards – one went for a long TD and that was it for big plays.

          Like

  9. BREAKING … the Austin Peay game begins at 4 and Cuse game starts at noon. Both on ACC Network which means very few Pitt fans will watch

    Like

  10. I already signed back up for hulu at 1:00 AM this morning, 9/1. Eli, Fred and myself are ready to rock this season as long as it lasts. Let’s hope Eli and Fred brings some luck and goodwill for PITT!

    Liked by 4 people

  11. The lack of offers for Turner coming out of HS is probably due to injuries — a really bad one in August of his senior year — and him missing a lot of time. Saw this in an article: “Turner suffered a horrific fractured fibula on the play. The devastating injury ended his senior season at DeMatha Catholic (Md.).

    During his sophomore season with the Stags, Turner had suffered a fractured tibia.”

    The article does describe Turner as speedy and elusive. Not a bad combo. Experience apparently is lining up in the slot…

    Speedy and elusive kick returners are nice to have… 👍

    Go Pitt.

    Like

  12. One final thought on the Duzz-Canada thing. They played the audio of that on the Fan today. Let me be very, very, clear. There was no mistaking or twisting his words. Duzz came off as an arrogant, snarky a##. I was shocked, but shouldn’t have been. And the funny part is he could have walked it back at multiple points and didn’t. Really, really disappointing. Has to be awkward on the Southside.

    Like

  13. NCAA should increase scholarship limit to 90 to make room for kids in the virus era especially with the new NCAA rules for carryover kids.

    We all eagerly await MM’s season prediction edition on the POV.

    Stay safe.

    Like

  14. From the prior thread:
    Reed Kohberger
    September 1, 2020 at 5:29 pm
    No says that offer wasn’t real Ike, just that Pitt did it knowing it wouldn’t be accepted. Thus it was no more that a “Hey, we tried” move.

    What would you have preferred Reed? By my math considering the net difference of that 500K, choosing the stability option leading to head coach opportunity could arguably have been more lucrative.
    My thought is that Canada is a bit short-sighted and yet myopic enough to know he caught lightning for his year with some talented pieces and a solid O-line.

    And responding to Joeknew:
    IF the offer to Canada wasn’t real, then PN’s commentary about it in the coach clinic was just fake thoughts also. Fake arrogance, fake snark, just the way PN makes a point and means absolutely nothing.
    Nothing on the Southside should therefore be uncomfortable,,,,or at least any more than it would have been prior to this. Don’t you think these guys already knew what each thought of the other?
    Watching the actual video for me did not make me think any different of PN. A little overboard with emotion to make a point,,,,not a surprise to anyone.

    Liked by 1 person

  15. As reported on XM84 College Sports Radio –

    Central Arkansas tested all players after the Austin Peay game and NOT one player tested positive for the Coronavirus.

    Good news for Pitt FB.

    C. Ark passed the Austin Peay test. 🤣😷

    Liked by 5 people

  16. Like MM mentioned, that wasn’t a video that was suppose to be seen by anyone, it was a private lecture. Also, If I hired a good friend of mine and he turned his back on me I wouldn’t be happy. btw, the $1,000,000, offer was 100% legitimate. Narduzzi was banking on reasonable and loyal thinking. Thirdly he’s completely right, MC made a bad decision which was his whole point. Narduzzi was teaching a valuable lessen in friendship, life and economics. You can step on others fingers climbing the ladder of success or you can take the honorable route to the top, maybe a little longer but I always took the loyal route.

    Like

  17. You have got to be kidding me. If that’s your view, OK, but there is no hope. I have no axe to grind, but that was just cheap shot , petty, baby boy rant. Because he didn’t listen to the great and powerful OZ he’s done forever? Wow, I’m stunned. And he just kept on going. In a room nowadays , with that many people, there was no way any sane person wouldn’t expect someone to have a phone and record it. Very poor judgement, and totally unnecessary. Loyal route,lol, that’s rich.

    Like

  18. Well JoeK, you still don’t believe the PITT one million dollar offer was real. That’s rich as well. Obviously you don’t like the guy, I’m cool with that but listen to the Narduzzi interview on PSN. Should Narduzzi have named names? Probably not. Again it was a clinic and his good friend Canada screwed him by leaving. Actually I’m glad he did, the proverbial one trick pony that got fired every where he went before and after. Peterman made him what he was thought of. Watch Ben tell him to stfu on national tv.

    Like

  19. Ike, I’d suggest you listen to the whole thing, not just where they cut it off. Also, I have not said boo about him recently. I have said he is snarky,mand by any reasonable account you have to admit that. The problem is there was no need for him to do that, none. The guy gave Pitt there best offense in 40 years. They haven’t matched it under Narduzzi before or after he left. To say he wasn’t even that good , well, no need for that. Shows he( Duzz) actually has some growing up to do. I understand, you love him, and have never been the most objective. But that’s OK, you have that optimism many of us lack. It makes the POV better. More balanced.

    Liked by 1 person

  20. Two things you should already know JoeK and I’ve made this very clear in the past. I don’t love Narduzzi and I recognize he’s snarky with a weird sense of humor and say’s things out of line all the time. Can I get this on record for the last time. He has many faults as a person and a coach but he’s here at PITT for the unforeseen future. He’s also built a good football team going into this new season. Yes it took him awhile to do it but it took longer for PITT to destroy their football program.

    Liked by 1 person

  21. I agree with Joe that Narduzzi is snarky and very full of himself. The PR from this is horrible for Pitt.
    And…I agree with Ike, Narduzzi will be our coach for a very long time.

    Been wanting to pose this for a while….your thoughts??

    In high school and college basketball I believe that the team with the best players wins 80% of the time. Head coach is worth 20%. 15% of that is training and disciplining his team in practice …5% is game day coaching. What do you think the formula is for college football?? How much of it does Narduzzi own? I think the team is massively better at recruiting and current personnel is the best we’ve had at Pitt Football for a long time. But…there’s that HC thing?

    Like

    1. Randy , 1st words that come to mind on “ winning programs” for me are the names Chuck Wagner, Don Early, Frank Cignetti and Dick Dilts…. that extremely successful quartet coached HS FB for many years in the Alle-Kiski valley, more specifically Oakmomt , Freeport, Leechburg and Kiski Area…those men consistently coaches the upper echelon teams during their tenures…WPA boys during th the hay day of HS football all love the game but certain coaches could take a group of young men and always win big…

      Like

      1. I played for coach Wagner and also had him as my history teacher during my years at Riverview. He was truly a great role model and leader of young men…he was a legend in Oakmont and a wonderful man.

        Like

  22. As a Pitt supporter, I want Narduzzi to be successful. I agree with Ike. Name me a top tier head coach and I’ll point out his flaws. Come on, man! Remember that PN has good relationships with his boss Heather and his players. He gets the benefit of the doubt.

    Like

  23. Well, I’d ordinarily give anyone the benefit of the doubt, but the Duzz pulled the move all liars do when caught, the media twisted my words. Duh, Pat, they have you on tape and video. No mistaking what you said. Might be the reason Canada is net door and you guys haven’t spoken. Be a man, admit you said it to make a point, and move on, not blame it on someone twisting your words. Lame, really, really, lame.

    Liked by 2 people

  25. Agreed. There was no need to take this public. This public message to Canada that Narduzzi felt betrayed should have been delivered in private, and Canada’s career has already paid the price. So Narduzzi should have just moved on.

    Like

  26. I am not here to defend HCPN. There are aspects to his personality/abilities that I like, and many that I do not. There is truth to be found on both sides of the POV discussion regarding the man. When I heard the clip it was easy to say, “what a jerk.” But, I also recognized something else. Regardless of whether you are famous, a regular Joe or the POTUS, people often try to entertain and embellish when they are the center of attention and speaking to a large crowd. As it has been established, HCPN was trying to make a point to those in attendance and- true to his personality- employed these tactics while also injecting his pettiness.

    So, once this became public, how could he have “spun” this story? All he had to do was own up to what he said, admit that he meant no real harm as he was only trying to be entertaining, admit that he may have gone too far and apologize if his comments offended anyone. Had he done just so, at least he would have earned a small amount of respect. Instead, he comes off as he usually does (I’ll leave it up to you all to fill in the blank.)

    Some food for thought: There are several “behind the scene” stories I could tell about Joe Paterno. Whatever your thoughts on HCPN are, he is a minor leaguer compared to that man- I would have said so long before the Sandusky issues came to light.

    Liked by 2 people

  27. Tidbits of thoughts: Narduzzi is Narduzzi and his emotional outbursts often has him saying things he should have taught thru more carefully before he spoke.—Canada was given a 3 year contract act extension by NC State in 2015 and fired the following season. His offense that year average over 32 points per game BUT the guy never stopped talking to other teams actively seeking a better deal. The NC State head coach gave him his walking papers as a result.—-Turner will play in week #1 according to Narduzzi and he will be back there in KO’s and Punt Returns with maybe a couple of Ffrench 1 yard pass plays thrown in to boot. MM stated he’s fast and shifty and that’s something you would want around on any team. Also Narduzzi doesn’t have to sacrifice his other starters in those high risk return situations.

    Like

  28. Fact is …..

    — no doubt HCPN is cocky and self-assured, as are a plethora of other HCs

    — no doubt that all HCs have spoken things meant for private that they would not say privately. (Heck even ‘aw shucks’ Pauiie was caught using the F word on the UW sidelines while criticizing Miami in a bowl game a few years back ….. Paulie!)

    — no doubt everyone of us have said things among friends or family that they would never think of writing here, even though we are someone protected by anonymity

    This is a story because both Duzz and Canada are working here in Pgh now. I remember ‘Drama Queen” Starkey asking the PSU game announcer what were his thoughts when Duzz tweeted H2P about the same time PSU was losing to PSU …. well this was the first I heard about it, and then he immediately went onto another subject

    Like

    2. Fact is ….. if we were jilted by a girl friend we would have a few choice words even if we realized that she found a better looking, richer guy

      Liked by 1 person

  29. Canada is a money hungry whore with zero loyalty. He could care less what anyone thinks about him as long as his bank account is full.
    This is a nothing story. Coaches talk shit all the time. Canada will get undeserved credit for Rothlisberger having a good year and capitalize on it for another pay day. That’s his history.

    Like

    1. Canada is a money hungry whore with zero loyalty. He could care less what anyone thinks about him as long as his bank account is full.
      This is a nothing story. Coaches talk crap all the time. Canada will get undeserved credit for Rothlisberger having a good year and capitalize on it for another pay day. That’s his history.

      Like

  31. Sad thing is a week and a half till game day and we are still debating this.

    There should be serious buzz coming out of the SouthSide and we know very little.

    We have the most stability in a Pitt Staff and the most experience on the field in a long time.

    This also means we should have the most depth since recruiting has been getting marginally better.

    The only down side is that Covid thing, no fans, all that testing….

    Liked by 1 person

  32. Looks like the Duz may be doing some self reflection?

    Like

    1. Good to see Duzz reflecting…It’s time for a little reflecting and production!

      My dad, big Sherm, had A few sayings that are always worth passing on “there’s nothing worse than a liar.” …“The only thing you’re going to inherit is your last name-go to work and earn the rest of it.”

      Liked by 3 people

      1. Dam straight BiggieB, Lying only leads to more lies. I’ve always preferred a clear conscious. You can call me about everything and anything but never call me a liar. I’ve work hard in my life not to be called a liar. Actually it wasn’t that hard.

        and….. my last name was the only thing I got handed to me…….. That’s why I tell the wife, lets spend all the money now, it’s the kids turn to take care of us. She rebukes that. Lastly, I can’t think of anyways to spend the money.

        ike, who’s stuck in Latrobe for life.

        Like

  34. GC – your comment on coaching staff stability and on the field experience needs some added back-up besides the Pitt FB and HC Duzz delivering a top 2 finish in the ACC this season.

    The first is having a reputable CFB reporter actually predicting Pitt in the top 2 – check.
    Second, Pitt must have solid, experienced depth at all positions to avoid that COVID thing –

                                               - OR -

    Put must avoid any more injuries and a COVID, player related shutdown –

    QB – good depth with maybe the best player as the back-up.
    RB – Zero proven experience, but potential young talent in Daniel Carter and Izzy.
    WR – Proven experience, but inconsistent due to injury history (Mack & Tipton) – nice trio of true FR and experienced depth added with Turner yesterday.
    OL – plenty of depth, but the big question, will any of it be good. The interior starters, are good (Morrissey, Hargrove and Kradel) and the starters at tackle have experience, but as a fan, it was below average. The depth is inexperienced and wasn’t’ able to beat out a below average OL in 2019.
    TE – Krull “should” be good and the depth is very inexperienced.

    O = Ouch for me…

    DE – (5) deep with good experience and (3) are above average starters.
    DT – Camp & Bentley as starters with Danielson & Green have good experience – this depth is ok if Camp avoids injury.
    LB – Other than Campbell and Bright, does anyone feel good about our LB depth? I don’t…
    CB – Pinnock is good – no good experience on the roster. Trouble? I this Battle & Royal will be FR sensations – just a gut feeling.
    S – Other than Paris & Hamlin, Pitt has very little good experience on the safety depth chart, although I believe B.Hill will be very good.

    D = Dangerously good if the starters stay healthy.

    Special Teams – 3 and 4 year program guys all around that should show improvement over 2019. Also, the addition of Turner to the return game makes me feel we have decent depth, knowing the potential starters pre-Turner are now back-ups.

    Coaching – I don’t have a warm and fuzzy feeling about game day decision making – we have to hope Duzz & Whipple improve over 2019 coaching performances. Is that too much to ask? Duzz often says the team needs to be lead by the players – who are the captains and will they lead on and off the field lyke we haven’t seen in the past 5 years? That may be our key to a top 2 finish in the ACC in 2020.

    H2P!

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Again it depends on your perspective. Mine is this Pitt team vs. previous Pitt teams for the last 20+ years, not necessarily vs. most top twenty teams. We haven’t had a QB with this much experience since Tino, I know right. We haven’t had a d-line like this, even without Twyman since the heyday or at least since Wanny. Safeties since the 80’s.

      There will always be weaknesses on a team from Pittsburgh. We always seem to lose a difference maker or two each year, to injury or early graduation. We don’t plug and play four star guys like the football factories, that is just a fact.

      We have had more than our share of superstars, probably none on this team, but still a team that should be fun to watch, especially the pass rush.

      Liked by 1 person

  35. GC – your comment on coaching staff stability and on the field experience needs some added back-up besides the Pitt FB and HC Duzz delivering a top 2 finish in the ACC this season.

    The first is having a reputable CFB reporter actually predicting Pitt in the top 2 – check.
    Second, Pitt must have solid, experienced depth at all positions to avoid that COVID thing –

    – OR –

    Put must avoid any more injuries and a COVID, player related shutdown –

    QB – good depth with maybe the best player as the back-up.
    RB – Zero proven experience, but potential young talent in Daniel Carter and Izzy.
    WR – Proven experience, but inconsistent due to injury history (Mack & Tipton) – nice trio of true FR and experienced depth added with Turner yesterday.
    OL – plenty of depth, but the big question, will any of it be good. The interior starters, are good (Morrissey, Hargrove and Kradel) and the starters at tackle have experience, but as a fan, it was below average. The depth is inexperienced and wasn’t’ able to beat out a below average OL in 2019.
    TE – Krull “should” be good and the depth is very inexperienced.

    O = Ouch for me…

    I’ll do the D, ST and coaching later…

    Liked by 1 person

  36. Mike – 2 attempts to send comments did not make the cut this morning.

    Off to do some productive works…

    I guess I will remain silent going forward.

    Like

    1. Found em in spam. Have no idea why WordPress is singling you out but it is.

      Just out of curiosity have you tried posting under a different username?

      Like

        1. Try using a fictitious email address. I got tangled up with WP several times (probably because I have a WP blog-site), so I use a made-up email address now, no problems. Still using same Name.

          Liked by 1 person

      2. I almost have never had a problem with WordPress. In fact I got an email the other day congratulating me on my 4th year anniversary. Time flies.

        Like

  37. We leave the regularly schedule complaints for this alert … Watching the games on line maybe more difficult then you think. So this is what I did. I cut the cable cord and went with the Disney + bundle to get: Disney/Hulu/ESPN+

    Last week I tried to watch the AP game and was met with a “Select your cable provider”. FULL STOP

    So it appears ESPN segregates their offerings, With my bundle I only get ESPN+ channels and NOT ESPN2/ESPN3/ESPNU.

    (https://secure.espncdn.com/promotions/bsa/2019/apps/getaccn/assets/pdf/ACCN_ACCNX_Updated_One_Pager_v05.pdf) “You are not able to subscribe to ACCN/ACCNX directly or via ESPN+”

    Upgrading to Hulu-live was about $60 month

    So currently looking for the inexpensive, OK cheap option to stream the games.

    Looking at Sling “orange” $30 month

    More of an infomercial but some info: https://flixed.io/how-to-watch-espn3-without-cable/#:~:text=Despite%20its%20complexities%2C%20the%20cheapest,by%20subscribing%20to%20Sling%20TV.

    So trying to head off some frustrations for folks… nothing worse then “full stop” when hoping to watch the game. Just not enough Woodford/Angels Envy/Blantons/Ocean to dull that pain.

    Hoping we have a good season

    Like

      2. Ike, cant find that offer anywhere. Are you sure is comes with ESPN 2/3 and ESPNU? The normal bundle is about that price, but comes with just ESPN +…. hence my problem.

        An ESPN rep just called me back, telling me that ESPN was a “platform” of networks. To which I responded that he should tell his Disney corporate overloads that it appears my pennies may likely go to Sling instead of straight to Disney.

        Like

          1. Sure do … I use Roku/PC/Phone, all three have access to the Hulu/ESPN+ bundle, that is how I found the issue … I can watch ESPN+ content just fine… but ESPN+ is not ACC Network enabled. So when I tried to watch the game, it was not possible.

            I did not go with Hulu-live (~$55), because I have an over the air antenna connected to a Tablo (digital DVR.). ( yet another link https://www.businessinsider.com/how-much-is-hulu )

            MM, I hope I am not violating your terms of service with the links, but I don’t want to cut and paste that much.

            I am NOT advocating for one provider over another, just want to watch the game for as few pennies as possible. At 61 with retirement looming gotta watch them pennies… and that Pitt Engineering degree ought to be worth something.

            Liked by 1 person

            1. Thanks, I guess I’ll I’ll have to check closer to what I’m paying? I’m notorious of spending money and signing up for things without knowing the price. I’m a fifty cent millionaire.

              Like

        1. No, I was wrong Mark, I just ordered it not caring of price. Once I checked into it I see where it’s $55.00 a month. I need something to look forward to and $55.00 is worth it to me. You can cancel anytime. Hell it’s cheaper than going to games and staying overnight at an overpriced hotel.

          Like

  38. This is all a unnecessary distraction since the Pitt team will most likely lay a turd against pea. Slow news time so let’s over blow something like this.

    Like

  39. It is freaking hilarious that some on here are dissing Canada for taking an extra $500K and leaving. How many of you wouldn’t do the exact same thing for a half million cash on the barrel head?

    Loyalty goes both ways. Would Narduzzi had kept MC on payroll if MC had, oh, lets say, offenses like we have seen over the last two years? That would be 96th and 114th in scoring. Of course not.

    As far as the attitude PN has in that clip I’m not surprised one bit. Obviously one should always think what you say in confidence might well be repeated in public – even if it was prefaced by “Just between you and I…”

    Liked by 1 person

    1. He’s already lost his $500,000 extra money for leaving PITT. He took the wrong turn in the fork in the road. Laugh all you want but Canada is not laughing about now.

      Like

    2. Narduzzi discussed how he was patient when at Michigan State. The result possibly might be when he is done at Pitt he will have made between $20-$30 million.

      And $500,000 in the coaching ranks is nothing. Matt was going to make a million a year at Pitt until a head coaching job came open or someone really below his doors off with an OC offer where he would not have been fired after one year like at LSU.

      He made a mistake and Narduzzi is right.

      Like

    3. You can always assume something said in private will get out. So don’t say it! I Taught corporate email etiquette “don’t ever send emails in anger or after alcohol ….and always assume your worst enemy will read it!”

      If Duzz was a humble man devoid of arrogance, this would not be a big deal as it was said in private. As it is, this is all over the USA and a huge PR stain on Pitt Football.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Good thing nobody cares about Pitt.

        Hey remember when James Franklin said he needs his Assitant coaches to have “hot wives” because it shows they are better recruiters?

        Hit the news. Made a controversy. Nobody talking about it now. Nard’s gaffe too will pass.

        Like

        1. #1 rule…….. Don’t blog sober!

          Man did I make a great mushroom soup today.

          Yep VMB, I’m paying $55.00 a month for Hulu, who knew? …. It’s only money.

          For that money I better get some wins out of it.

          Love the shirt Greg Lloyd use to wear. I’m not paid for my disposition or something to that effect? You know, in case you were wondering what to get Narduzzi for his birthday.

          Like

  41. Canada was the reason why pitt beat elites and won games. Yes he had studs that went pro. And yes teams eventually caught on to the jet sweep. But the reason why pitt couldn’t win more than 8 was entirely on Narduzzi. It was his defense that stunk to high hell. Let’s not revise history and deal with alternative facts and live in a Koolaid parallel universe. Pitt had it good with Canada. The only loyalty is money in sports. Those that fail to understand that still think scholar athletes are a real thing and sports isn’t a business. You are fools to think that. Narduzzi needs to talk less and have fewer meatballs fall out.

    Like

  42. Canada should say that offense would of won 13 games if King Pat had a semblance of a Defense. He is an A hole and has always been. If he was fired tomorrow the MAC would be a landing spot if that. He is all Hat no Cowboy.

    Like

  43. No worries about as you call him King Pat getting fired.. You’ll have someone to bitch about for years to come….. 🙂

    Like

  44. amazing anyone can see with surgical precision the effects on W-L of the HC and OC in a program,,,just f’n amazing

    i must believe you are exceptional and perfect in all things if you can know the workings of something so complex so i and hopefully everyone else will just log on and read while you grace the pages here with KNOWledge

    please don’t stop

    and if allowed, i have a long list of questions i thought i might not need help with but wtf do i know, probably will have to change a boatload of things going forward

    H2Tex!!!
    H2UPitt!!!

    Like

    1. Pitt had its best offense nearly ever under Canada. One of its worst defenses ever at that time under a defensive genius and guru coach from Sparty. There is only one coach to blame. It sure isn’t the one named after the great white north. Hint – it’s the one who sells his meatball recipes at garage sales for a dime.

      Like

    2. When all you Koolaid drinkers said Pitt would win ten I said drink the vinegar

      When you said Pitts recruiting would get better, I said drink the vinegar

      When you said pitt will play in a sunny and warm bowl game against meaningful competition, I said drink vinegar

      When you said pitt would get ranked and gain national respect, I said drink vinegar

      When you said Narduzzi was underpaid, I said drink vinegar

      When you said pitt would give clemson a good game, I said drink vinegar

      When you said sleeping fans and Fantas were good things, I said drink vinegar

      Tex whose healthy as a uncastrated longhorn and who has a full set of teeth thanks to vinegar.

      Like

        1. I swear by it. Koolaid also rots your mind. Makes you like one of the Nitter sheep part of the cult

          Those who don’t listen to the constructive criticism of the program supported by the evidence are really no better than anyone on BWI

          I’m sure 95 percent of readers would ban me and UPitt and Reed for daring to criticize Pitt. Fortunately we aren’t there…yet.

          And again I just don’t complain. I offer solutions. I also support four programs financially at Pitt…that are proven winners or will be.

          But don’t expect me to line up and drink the Fantas being offered by Heather and endorsed by Narduzzi.

          Like

  45. for the umpteenth time, Narduzzi is the antithesis of Paulie who left him with a great OL, some good offensive skill people but NOT a QB and certainly not a defense.

    now if Nard leaves after this season, his predecessor will inherit a great nucleus and prospects for defense but just a few promising skill people on offense which includes 2 promising QBs

    Like

    1. Why would Narduzzi leave?

      His boss loves him and owes him her job

      There is no pressure to do anything more than become bowl eligible

      He’s paid a fat $4 million

      He’s on easy street

      Tex who sees Narduzzi as Oscar the Grouch on Sesame Street with heather as Big Bird.

      Liked by 1 person

  47. Canada leaving for the extra 1/2 million was perfectly understandable IMO. Remember he also got a buyout on his LSU contract of which I don’t know the details. Then he got the OC job at Maryland for who knows how much at the time. He also got to take a year off after MD. Not bad taking a year off at his age. Does anyone have any idea how much the Steelers are paying to be their QB coach? I’d be willing to bet he’s getting close to that 1 million dollar level even today with the Steelers.

    Like

  48. MM, I’ve wondered for several years who would replace Billy. None of the guys who have filled in have got me excited. Bill is like that comfortable old shoe that you refuse to throw out. Unfortunately they have holes in the soles and the sides have split. It’s time, and that is another sad end to my ties to Pitt. He was a homer, but like Bob Prince, he was ours, and I’ll miss him when he does leave, it’s time, but th end of an era.

    Liked by 2 people

  49. @Reed, I realize your comment was about denigrating the offer and I asked then “what would you have preferred?”. In other words, what should Pitt have done, simply offered nothing or actually offered 1.5M or what. Why isn’t it OK to say you offered and present at least an arguably better look than either of those? What if they offered 1.5M and were turned down, how would everyone judge THAT look?

    There are a million ways to look at the Canada situation and while I guess some are hilarious, I think Canada’s history and then future allow for quite a bit of criticism. So if your “hilarious” was just meaning funny but not necessarily wrong, then ok, there is a range of things I’m glad the POV’ers provide for everyone’s entertainment. I hope I help there too.

    Like

  50. Last time, PITT offered a legitimate monetary offer to Canada hoping he would take stability and friendship over $500,000. He chose the money…….. End of story. He made his bed and doesn’t make anything even close to one million bucks as the QB coach for the Steelers. He already lost his gain by leaving. So he got a year long paid vacation. He has no respect and no prospects in his future. He blew it.

    Like

    1. Agree. People are comically going to assume since he is in the NFL that Matt is making big dollars. Hardly as a position coach. History is full of position coaches telling stories about how poorly they are paid, especially for the hours required to work.

      Like

      1. He’s making more money than 95 percent of the coaches on Pitts staff. And he’s writing his ticket to a future college HC Job or O coordinator in the pros. The mans not stupid. Very savvy regarding his career.

        Like

  52. Don’t want to brow beat anyone with this but I just read on PSN that Billy is officially suspended for his latest DUI. Big fan and I love Billy and hope he returns. Obviously I’m a homer as well. But, I know he’s not eligible for an ARD. Wishing him the best, thank goodness for Uber.

    Like

    1. He needed to retire ten years ago. The man obviously has a problem with alcohol. It’s time to get on with his future calling…watching the games on tv or listening on the radio.

      And you’re right Ike. This ain’t his first drinking and driving. I have a real problem with drunks like Billy on the road.

      Like

  53. OT: For those unable to get the ACC Network on cable the lowest price I found to stream the network on your computer is on VIDGO TV. The Vidco Core offering includes the ACC network at $40 per month. They have a 3 day free trial for those that want to see it working. I’m thinking of signing up for the free offer just before next Thursday’s ACCN broadcast of the Miami game. If it streams OK for anyone trying then I’d stay with for the Pitt football season.—–There are other options out there for streaming HULU, YouTube, Fubo TV and I believe some others at higher prices. Some are offering a one week free trial for their service.—-Why Comcast and the other cable companies don’t at least offer an upgrade to just the ACC Network on a per month basis is beyond me. Even a $10 monthly uncharge for the network for those only interested in watching the Pitt football season would make both Comcast(and others) as well as the ACC Network some extra money if they just split the monthly fee.

    Like

  55. As i read through all the monday/tuesday quarterbacks here, many are chastizing canada for leaving and how he has done nothing since he left. This is probably not true. He made a lot of cash at LSU, more than he did at Pitt, by at least 50%. There was no guarantee that he would have stayed at Pitt any longer than the one year. Narduzzi hstory suggests he doesn’t keep OCs around long. He has had several and they are not given contracts for longer than 1 year.

    Give me a 50% increase in pay for doing the same thing and I leave my job tomorrow. Give an athlete student a brown bag and he goes somewhere else, yet noone complains about it.

    I can say that in my 30+ years of managing people, I have never once had someone quit over money or ask for more money during a year. Why? Transparency and honesty. I max out every employee, every year. You get paid the most I can pay now, not when you threaten to leave. They all know this upfront. We go through it as part of performance planning and career mapping.

    Narduzzi screwed Canada by not getting him the bigger money earlier. That’s the game fellas. You need to be proactive, not reactive. You pay your people right. Every time I have left a job, I have been offered more to stay by my employer. EVERY time (except one and it was persnal), I left. Why? Because as I explained, I didn’t get 40K better since I resigned. You obviously had the money and chose not to pay me. Only when you feel threatened, did you respond. No thanks. Canada should have left. I left the other position immediately following the resolution of my personal issue.

    Pitt was reactive and that is fine for Pitt. They are cheap. We are a market driven economy. You either pay up front, or the market decides that your people are underpaid and off you go. Clemsons DCoord and LSU coordinators get the biggest $$$, right? Why? Because their employers know the value. Nobody is coming at their personnel to pay them more because they are already the best paid.

    Good seeing you all again!

    Liked by 2 people

    2. Narduzzi doesn’t screw around with his OC’s and I’d think Pitt fans would like that since so many love change. Chaney I believe was the highest paid OC in college football at Tennessee and Narduzzi thought he had no balls, so he pushed him out. Canada was his home-run hire and he left. Watson was a terrible hire but obviously there wasn’t a million for the next guy. And now we are with Whipple, who should stick around a while longer. Fans want aggressive passing and Mark is providing that minus the receivers.

      Confused on Narduzzi should have gotten the biggest money earlier. You mean after scoring 76 points versus Syracuse? I guess on Wednesday evening QBs are the smart ones.

      Like

    3. Generally agree with your points Huff, although you seem to hold Canada blameless and thats where we may disagree. A friend hires him after he was canned fired and had been gaining a reputation as a difficult person to deal with.

      This part though – “Narduzzi screwed Canada by not getting him the bigger money earlier.” is BS. Narduzzi offers him a gig with opportunity to prove himself after he was fired – and folks in the know suggest his interpersonal shortcomings and communication failures played a big role. The guy was damaged goods.

      Now, if you want to say that Narduzzi may have screwed himself by not getting him big money earlier… I’m all ears.

      Like

  56. Oh, one more thing. Budget smudget! It was obviously in the Pitt budget that they could have paid. They didnt miraculously find a pile of cash. They had it. It is a choice. Pitt went cheap. It’s a bad look for Narduzzi and Pitt…again. Maybe we start jumping up and down again in the 4th quarter, squirting each other with our covid free water bottles.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Agreed and “liked” this, although sometimes a program doesn’t have it and the AD finds a couple boosters at the last minute to step up and fill the gap. Happens at a lot of schools.

      Like

  57. Huff
    You said it all man.
    Plus the half ass offer at the end was still 500 grand light.
    See ya
    N.b and the Duzz should keep his f cking mouth shout in a room full of people when talking about a former employee.

    Like

    2. Narduzzi bailed out Canada when he was thrown out on his ass at NCS. Canada used players he didn’t recruit. Fired the next two places he went. He’s basically a failure and he would be broke if not for Narduzzi. A one trick pony that was figured out after only one season.

      Liked by 1 person

  58. Not falling for that Ike. Who says Canada would be broke. Someone else most likely would have hired canada if narduzzi took a pass originally, but we will never know. We can only deal with what actually happened, not coulda woulda shoulda or maybe.

    As an example, one might say Pitt would be undefeated if it wasnt for injuries! Who would know this exactly? You can only know what you know based on what actually happened.

    Like

  59. Huff, if one keeps getting fired everywhere he goes and then quits on a friend once he achieves one season of success there on a flyer you end up being a QB coach. I don’t think that was in Matt Canada’s life’s plans. The dude doesn’t get it. Patience is a virtue. I would say he’s making $300,000 at most, he left all kinds of money on the table out of greed and stupidity…….. I get it Huff, that’s just imo.

    Like

  60. FWIW …. one does not necessarily the other

    Yes, I don’t blame Canada for leaving for $1.5M; and at the same time, I don’t blame Duzz for feeling betrayed. I assume it was not easy to get the AD to hike Canada’s salary to $1M, especially when Duzz was making < $2M

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Canada has a home by us on Topsail Island NC…had a new bride when I met him… Give the guy a break POVerts’…$h#t costs money …. in NC your down 50% when you and wifey split- jus say’n

      He spoke the truth before the ‘16 season…. “Jester Weah is the real deal! We will score a LOT of points this year!!!” A man of his word…

      …

      Liked by 1 person

      2. Spent a month on Topsail in 1967, learned how to surf, went back to see it in the early 2000’s. Still a sleepy little beach town.
        I like it, you are a lucky man BigB.

        Like

  61. it would have been amazingly hilarious reading some of the POV’ers reaction had Canada been offered 1.5M prior to the LSU situation

    Talk about F’n hilarious, hearing you all praise Pitt and OMG, what if it were HCPN’s idea,,,, i can only imagine the love and admiration that would have ensued

    HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!

    thanks for the entertainment!!!!!!
    awesome!!!!!!!!
    keep them coming, please

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I’ve come to bury Pitt. Not to praise Pitt.

      You really think Pitt football deserves praise for its mediocrity. Oh yes, you’re in the fan club for saving kittens, walking old ladies across Fifth Ave and for grad rates and high gpa’s.

      Pitt just needs to cheat it’s arse off, win the ACC and get to the BCS. You may need to take a shower after that season but believe me, it will be worth it.

      Tex who knows dirty. I married a Hoopie.

      Like

      1. You confuse me Tex. You say Pitt needs to play dirty (cheat) a day after criticizing the program for picking up a transfer player who had a DUI. ???

        Like

  62. Here’s another thing, Narduzzi took a lot of heat and I mean a lot of heat here on the POV for hiring a failing friend named Matt Canada. Look it it up. Now he’s a saint around here.

    Liked by 1 person

  66. Canada got his job at Pitt after Narduzzi rescued him from the NC State scrap heap. He dusted him off, gave him a reasonable salary and saved his football career with an OC job. Canada repaid him by walking out after one year despite a promise of a significant bump in future pay. Canada’s career is filled with good coaching jobs, controversy and then terminations. PN let his pent up anger at betrayal get the best of him, but it is easy to see why.

    Liked by 1 person

  67. LSU or Pitt you go to LSU 100 times out of 100. LSU gives you 1.5M and Pitt paying you 450k takes you up to 1M after you just set every record imaginable.

    He was the best Oc in the USA that year. Laughable to think he should of stayed at Pitt.

    Like

  69. UPitt, 95% of the time I would agree with you about a coach leaving for a better opportunity. But given Canada’s history and knowing that PN went to bat for him, it was a big time betrayal. The salary figures are basically irrelevant in this case. No one will trust Canada with a HC job again, he’s burned too many bridges and can’t be trusted.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. All he needs to do is win and have a good tenure with Steelers and he will be right back where he was.

      Narduzzi went to bat for him? He was the Asst Coach of the year!!! Pitt didn’t pay him until he had LSU’s offer in hand. I know, I know the Asst AD at LSU.

      Had Pitt been Proactive and not Reactive and maybe he wouldn’t of gone.

      Like

  70. Watching ESPNU showing the Pitt v. Gtown Big East tourney game. Uggh. Watching Chipman piss away talent (Gore (RIP), Aiken, Smith, Lane) with a .500 record is the story of the Pitt fan.

    As far as Narduzzi/Canada..

    Canada SHOULDN’T have left- history shows us that. Narduzzi is an egomaniacal 12 year old who can’t shut his mouth- history has also shown us that. There was NO reason to say any of what he said. And the comment, “He wasn’t that good.” is just assinine. Without Canada, Narsuzzi is sub .500 for his CAREER. And anyone who says, “He didn’t know he was being recorded “, that’s a garbage excuse made by garbage people. Own what you day- “Put your name on it.”

    Pitt goes 6-5 this year. Great defense. Terrible line. Bad QB.

    Like

    1. Again, Canada had a great year there is no doubt about it but none of those players where his. That year was the only good year in his entire career.

      Another thing, the “that’s a garbage excuse made by garbage people” is a worse line than Narduzzi ever coined. So if you want to talk like that…… there is no room to criticize Narduzzi and his idiotic remarks…. and there is no doubt, PN says stoopid schitt all the time.

      Like

    2. Welcome back Jay. Spent my freshman year in Tower A. Made several hundred dollars selling basketball tickets that year. My Philly roommate however made thousands selling weed. Wake n bakes were popular prior to Pitt football games back in my day. Pitt was that bad that you needed to be really high. I thank God for cannabis to this day.

      Like

  72. Narduzzi went to bat for Canada after NC State. And then again to basically double his salary after one successful year. So UPitt, most people would be angry after that. But Narduzzi saying assistants should be patient is code for saying the coaching industry needs more loyalty.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Very true

      Neither side is blameless. But Narduzzi really just needs to keep his opinions to himself. I understand his thinking. But he comes across as petty and vindictive.

      Let’s just move on and discuss why Pitt won’t cover against Pea.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. I have an un-easy feeling heading into the 2020 “betting season!!!” I just might take a waiver for this year……

        Like

  74. Our new TE commit, Jake Renda, will be on ESPNU tonite at 8 playing for IMG Academy. With all the talents IMG has, it’s likely he will not get many balls thrown his way …. but who knows?

    Liked by 1 person

  75. I am tired of all this negative talk about Narduzzi and very seldom look at this site Anymore . Show me a head coach that is not arrogant, not have a big ego, opens all practices and Does Not do the things some of you suggest and I will show you a BIG LOSER.. Show me one college coach that is a winner that is different. Look at Sweeney and Sabin they are probably worse but win more.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. you ought to come back, the site is actually changed a bit with the writing and posting

      maybe you’ll still not stay it but it is different

      Like

    2. Gary Patterson at TCU

      I can name at least ten others

      Many are paid less, are more successful and come with less drama

      Like

    3. I’d say that things have actually moved back towards pro-narduzzi since Reed handed me the reins.

      I did a survey after the season and I think about 70% were in favor.

      I personally have no axe to grind with the man (ie Pat) by I do enjoy lampooning him from time to time. And when I see him do something I don’t agree with (or could have done better), I’ll call it out.

      I think every football fan base does the same. You should see how the Bama fan base calls for Saban’s head when he loses in the CFP! (Seriously)

      Hope you come back more frequently JP.

      Like

  76. Can we get off this Canada-Narduzzi BS (they probably have coffee and a doughnut every morning on the south-side) and get back to discussing the Covid……

    Liked by 3 people

  78. Maybe a bunch of us could “sneak” into the Saturday’s game (some old fashioned mischievousness)…..Scooter could run cover while we go over the fence…..Jay, I will need a heavy lifter to help get me over…I still remember you having no problem lifting that huge full cooler of beer into my pick-up at Wake game a couple of years ago….Impressive!!!

    Seems like the gang is getting back on here…expect PITTman4ever any minute…

    Like

  81. Somebody besides KP needs to get some meaningful in game snaps this year. All three backups deserve a chance to show they can play at an ACC level or not. In all likelihood KP will be gone next year, who is going to take his place?

    Liked by 1 person

  82. I’m wondering if Pitt is losing or winning big, will Narduzzi start inserting the back up QB more. Especially this year, with the extra year of eligibility thrown in, Pitt needs to get the younger players into the game more and ready to play. Not knowing if Pickett will decide to come back next year, they need to have a QB ready to step in.

    Like

    1. Did Pitt ever get a big lead on any team last season? Averaging just over 21 points a game didn’t allow many backups to play especially in key positions. Unless the offense comes out looking and playing drastically different this season and scoring at least the average 35 point level than you won’t get to see much of any Pickett back up baring injury.

      Like

  83. grizzly1, we must have been thinking the same thing, except I’d expand it and push for other players, such as the back up center, to get some snaps.

    Like

Comments are closed.