I don’t think Pitt has shown up in any type of football rankings in at least a couple years. That’s why when Mark Schlabach ranked us at #22 I got a little more excited for the 2008 season.

22. Pittsburgh The Panthers have reason for optimism after upsetting West Virginia 13-9 in the regular-season finale, a loss that cost the Mountaineers a chance to play for the BCS championship. Dave Wannstedt failed to produce a winning record in his first three seasons as coach of his alma mater, but the Panthers seem ready to turn the corner in 2008. Pitt lost four games by seven points or fewer in 2007. Seven starters are expected back on both offense and defense. Tailback LeSean McCoy ran for 1,328 yards and 14 touchdowns as a freshman, and freshman quarterback Pat Bostick was much improved by season’s end. Receiver Derek Kinder and defensive tackle Gus Mustakas will return from season-ending knee injuries. Linebacker Scott McKillop led the country with 151 tackles and led a defense that showed bite in 2007.

We should remember a few things before we get too pumped up: the 2007 ended less than 24 hours ago, we haven’t even seen what National Signing Day will bring to every team, and of course the injury bug could come out of nowhere and ruin a season in the blink of an eye (see: Pitt hoops). We’re also not entirely sure who’s going to start at QB and whether or not they’ll be competent enough to lead the team.
Still, next year should be a fun time to be a Panther fan.