It’s official. Press release from Pitt:

More than three decades after captaining the Panthers’ 1973 Fiesta Bowl team, Wannstedt was named the new head football coach at the University of Pittsburgh today by Athletic Director Jeff Long.

A rugged offensive tackle for the Panthers from 1970-73, Wannstedt returns to his alma mater with 30 years of coaching experience on the collegiate level and in the National Football League. His career has produced three championship rings, including a Super Bowl title and two national collegiate championships.

“The first time I met Dave Wannstedt, I was immediately struck by his pride and passion for the University of Pittsburgh,” Long said. “Although Dave’s long and successful coaching career has taken him many different places, his love for Pitt has remained. He not only understands our tradition but has also helped build it.”

“This opportunity is something I have dreamed about since my early coaching days at Pitt,” said Wannstedt, who is a native of Baldwin, Pa. “I am excited about rejoining the Pitt family and making a positive contribution and difference with the football team, the University and community.”

Wannstedt is the 34th head football coach in Pittsburgh history and becomes the ninth graduate of Pitt to lead the Panthers’ football program.

Read the rest for a narrative of his resume. You should click it, just to see a photo of him from 1973. Here’s the AP wire story.

I’m telling you, Wannstedt has to show up at the b-ball game tonight. Too good an opportunity to miss. You would think a coach reviled in Miami and Chicago wouldn’t miss an opportunity to bask in some pure love. Especially one that would be nationally televised.

Whoo-Hoo!!!