That’s what the b-ball beat writers seem to be asking. In the first 3 games, Senior Forward Mark McCarroll hasn’t seen a lot of action. McCarroll was Pitt’s 6th man last year. He had a solid scoring touch, including from the outside to mid-range shots. He was also good to provide a few extra fouls. The knock on him last year, was that he was very slow on defense. It was expected that he would get the start this year to replace Jaron Brown. Problem is, it seems his defensive play still hasn’t come up to par, while Pitt now has other scoring options.

McCarroll wouldn’t talk to the press about the articles. Coach Dixon says he will be in the games, and there is some thought that part of his lack of minutes is to see what the new kids can do. Still with Pitt using more 3-guard sets, and if DeGroat and/or Benjamin catch on to the defense quickly, McCarroll may become more of a utility player.

Dixon said McCarroll is practicing at three different positions (the swing, power forward and center) in practice and has dabbled with each in games. He said McCarroll will continue to be a strong role player for his team.

“If you look at games last year, he had some very big games and I think the same thing will happen this year,” Dixon said. “He’s played very well. Mark is a very good team player who makes guys better. He’s doing well. He’s playing very well. We have a lot of confidence in him.”

My gut says McCarroll will see his minutes rise as Big East play starts. He is a known quantity to Coach Dixon, and Dixon seems much more comfortable going with the players he knows what he can expect in the tougher games.