I hate to say it, but the crowd this Saturday is probably going to be a nasty throwback to the end of the Johnny Majors II/beginning of Walt Harris period. 4 tickets, only $70.

The athletic department was already concerned about this game before the season began as far as attendance. An 0-3 start is hard to overcome — even with the old unis. I’m going to have to miss the game this weekend for family obligations, and I know a couple of the tailgate crew have other things they can’t escape.

Well, the game notes from Pitt are up for the game (PDF). Kirkley is still listed as the starter at tailback, but there is an “OR” after his name followed by Stephens-Howling. Followed by another “OR” and Jennings. No other real changes in the depth chart, other than the obvious that Sam Bryant is now starting at Strong Safety. Behind him Redshirt Freshman Eric Thatcher “or” Freshman Tommie Campbell.

The transcript from Coach Wannstedt’s Monday Press conference is available. He admitted there were problems on special teams — especially on returns — that he blamed himself and the coaches. Brandon Mason was actually supposed to get some touches at tailback in the second half, but twisted his ankle on the onside kick-off to start the second half. He’s day-to-day.

There are several questions dealing with Palko and the passing game.

This is minor, but it struck me as interesting.

On Pitt’s punt returners:

Darrelle will return punts. We really just have him and Joe DelSardo. They’re really the only two guys we have right now. We could use Allen Richardson, but I don’t have a whole lot of confidence right now, but he’s the third guy.

Richardson must have really screwed up in academics, behavior/discipline or just lousy in practice.