University Of Pittsburgh
Wannstedt Gets What Pitt Needs
By Chris Dokish

As soon as Dave Wannstedt was hired to coach his alma mater, he hit the ground running in search of recruits. And he hasn't stopped since. Blessed with the charisma, passion, and energy common among all great recruiters, Wannstedt, in his first full class, has brought in the Panthers' best group since the Mike Gottfried era.

On offense, one of the biggest additions was New York running back Kevin Collier, an excellent back with the innate ability to make moves while not breaking stride. The most highly regarded player in the class is West Allegheny star Dorin Dickerson, who joins Gateway's Aaron Smith and Franklin TE Nate Byham to give the Panthers options in the passing game. One of the final additions to the Panthers' class was Duquesne High School receiver Elijah Fields, one of the best skill players in the state this year.

Pitt brought in two offensive linemen that should see immediate action. Juco star Jeff Otah, from Valley Forge Military Academy, is a massive 6'7" 340 pound tackle, while Joe Thomas of Ohio is one of the best linemen from the Midwest region. Both could see time right away.

The Panthers have a major need for speed on defense, and three excellent defensive tackles will make for a bright future for the Panthers. The best is John Malecki of Franklin Regional, a future star who is relentless and aggressive. Another local product, Baldwin's Jason Pinkston, has all the tools to be just as good. The Panthers went south for a third tackle in Florida's tough and rugged Jared Martin.

Defensive end was also a sore spot and Pitt landed a major prospect in McKenzie Mathews of Syracuse, NY. Mathews should provide a pass rushing threat from the edge and could play early. The Panthers also added three sleepers at the position, including Justin Hargrove, Pinkston's teammate at Baldwin.

Wannstedt stayed local at linebacker, picking up Gateway's Dan Loheyde, Thomas Jefferson's Nate Nix, and Greg Webster from Woodland Hills. All have good potential and speed.

In the secondary, the Panthers picked up several players with great potential and athletic ability. Two particular standouts who could see action early in their careers include Aaron Berry from Harrisburg and junior college star Lowell Robinson.