There are days when balancing family and obsession actually tilts away from obsession. Lots of stuff I had to do over the weekend. Plus, I was putting the finishing touches on the FanHouse Big East preview postings with fellow Hauser John Radcliff. Putting the objective hat on is not a lot of fun, but it is helpful in forcing some perspective even with Pitt.

So there’s a lot to catch-up. The first bit of good news is that there weren’t any injuries in the practices and scrimmages over the weekend. After last year and the number of injuries across the country, that’s something that can’t be taken for granted.

Nice news that Pitt got ranked #25 in the AP poll. The only team in the poll to have a losing record last year. USF and WVU were also ranked. For an 8 team conference, that’s decent to have 3 teams ranked. Rutgers, Cinci and UConn also received votes.

Next bit of good news, a new verbal.

Pitt received its 11th football commitment from the Class of 2009 when Elizabeth (N.J.) running back Raymond Graham picked the Panthers after visiting for their scrimmage today in the South Side.

Graham chose the Panthers over scholarship offers from Connecticut, Maryland, Michigan State and North Carolina State. Penn State also was showing interest. Raymond Graham picked the Panthers after visiting for their scrimmage today in the South Side.

Graham is 5-9, 187 pounds. He’s Pitt’s 3d verbal from New Jersey. Oddly, all three are primarily running backs in high school. Can’t help but think at least one will look at a position change down the road.

Graham, though, is the highest starred recruit among the RB verbals. He’s a 3-star according to Scout.com and Rivals.com has him as a 4-star and the 5th best recruit out of NJ and #8 in all-purpose backs.

Given Pitt’s depth at running back, it has to be expected that most backs coming into the program are looking at redshirts. Something that comes through with Graham in this ESPN.com/Scouts, Inc. evaluation (Insider subs.).

Graham is a gifted runner who possesses workhorse-type qualities in a small package. He is small in height not body composition. Thick, compactly-built and strong throughout his upper- and lower-body. … Durability with his current style is a bit of a concern as well. We would like to see him continue building up his sturdy frame with lean bulk and strength. Overall Graham is a natural well-rounded runner with skills to hurt a defense both in-line and on the perimeter. Potential sleeper in this running back class.

Best news, this story on Bob Junko and surviving his heart attack.