The culture is changing.
Pat Narduzzi is now the head honcho at the University of Pittsburgh. Pitt is a program rich with tradition that has recently fallen on hard times. Narduzzi has been trusted to breathe new life into this lackluster program. He went to work early by hiring some well qualified and experienced coordinators and position coaches.
Narduzzi’s new Offensive coordinator Jim Chaney is typically known for a pass happy spread attack. Chaney recently showed his flexibility by commanding the run the ball first, second, and third offense at Arkansas under head coach Brett Bielema. This is good news for Narduzzi who i suspect will operate a “run balanced mostly pro style” offense. The offense will be geared to operate from under center for the most part. Although, Narduzzi and Chaney will want to pass the ball quite a bit. Pitt will rely on the run game to manage the clock, keep the defense off the field, and open up opportunities in the play action passing attack.
Coach Narduzzi has and always will be a defensive coach, this will not change with the panthers. Pittsburgh’s new defensive coordinator Josh Conklin ran a Narduzzi inspired scheme at his last stop FIU. This will make the transition that much easier for the coaching staff. This panthers defense will be a tough, fast, and disciplined unit.
The pitt defense will attack the run game and try to lock down the passing game with man coverage corners and stingy ball-hawking safeties. Conklin and company will also try to create headaches for opponents by forcing turnovers. This will give the offense every opportunity to thrive and put points on the board.
Recruiting will be the key to being successful for Narduzzi and the panthers. Narduzzi has a track record of getting the most out of his young men, so star ratings will not necessarily make or break Pitt. Narduzzi would on the other hand love to create some buzz and gain some elite talent for his team. Although, gaining the ability to grab a few big name recruits would be optimal for achieving his desired result of making a splash in recruiting.
The identity of the Pittsburgh panthers football team will be a tough, disciplined unit. They will be ready to seize any opportunity they are given and perhaps create a few on their own. Optimism is at an all time high surrounding the football program and for good reason. Yes, there is plenty of things to look forward too under this new regime. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show Pitt fans!