Okay, if Kevin Collier — Pitt’s top RB verbal is actually wavering — and I stress if. I’m trying to figure out what Syracuse has done to indicate they are the better choice. I suppose, I could get it if he chose USC or some top program, but to suggest that Pitt’s season could sway him to Syracuse? I mean, that borders on delusional.
Coach Wannstedt, himself, can’t help looking to next year.
Wannstedt and his staff have been on the recruiting trail this past week, while the Panthers had no game, to put the finishing touches on a group already ranked in the top 10. And the head coach can’t wait to get next year’s incoming freshmen on campus.
“I believe this class can make an immediate impact,” Wannstedt said. “I’m basing that off of the fact that there’s a lot of positions where we need help right now, and I think Penn State is the best example of what can happen. What did they do last year, go (4-7)?
“I know they’ve got a great senior class. Don’t get me wrong. I know it’s the foundation, but the addition of some of those young kids — according to coach (Joe) Paterno — has made the biggest difference in their season. So, I know we’re going to get some instant help from a lot of guys.”
Pitt did not practice until Wednesday, but it was only a light workout. A little more hitting took place Thursday and Friday, even though there was a skeleton coaching staff there. The majority were on the road.
“All our coaches are on the road recruiting,” Wannstedt said. “There were only three of us (Wednesday). So, we kept it pretty basic. … I was here locally, (Wednesday), and I was in Florida (Tuesday).
“The reception has been outstanding. We’re going to hold onto a great class here that we’re focused on verbal commitments, and we’re going to add probably another four or five (incoming recruits) that I believe are big-time guys.”
I hope so, but a lot of that also depends on not trying to turn/treat Tyler Palko into/like A.J. Feeley. There has to be recognition — not just of what you want the team to do; but of what it can do and what it does best to enable it to win.
I’m not arguing against a strong running team, I’m saying that it will take more time. A strong running game depends a lot on an offensive line that is good and works well together. That takes more time than the passing game which is more of a one-on-one situation. It has a lot more to do with individual talent and the match-ups, and is less dependent on building cohesiveness and a group dynamic.
