Temple QB P.J. Walker makes a pass attempt in the first half of the Penn State vs. Temple Game in Philadelphia earlier this season. Photo by: Michael Corsey @ Michael Corsey Photography

By Tim Blasco

What the Pittsburgh Panther’s Coach is really saying

On Monday Pittsburgh Panther’s Head Coach Pat Narduzzi referenced his play calling abilities and Penn State’s lack in that department by saying: “You could have a talented quarterback with a bad play-caller and make him look bad,” Narduzzi said. “You see that around the country, some closer than others.”

Narduzzi is a former Michigan State coach and has made a lot of reference to how his Pitt Panthers match up to the Penn State Nittany Lions. In the same light as perhaps Florida and Florida State or Michigan and Michigan State. The problem is — it just looks like barking — as long as perception stays where its at. Pittsburgh just broke into the AP top 25 and no one in Pennsylvania really noticed.

With Penn State fighting for its life against the number one team in college football PA doesn’t have time to worry about something as tenuous as an AP Top 25 team. Or do they? Penn State lost to what is now a ranked no. 22 on the AP known as the Temple Owls. That’s a rarity since it’s the first time Temple had a rank in 36 years. The last time Temple was ranked The Pittsburgh Pirates won the World Series!

Speaking of Pittsburgh Narduzzi seems to be making a real stink in Pittsburgh. I am sure his Panthers could give the Lions a run for their money this year but why the smack talk? It could have a lot to do with Franklin’s ability to walk into any high school in the state and get his recruit. Franklin as we all know could talk any kid into Penn State. What he has shown recently though is his lack of ability to make that blue chip progress.

Perhaps Blue Chips are over rated. Maybe the Panthers are just lucky. What if they both played in the Big Ten or vice versa? None of that really matters this year as Penn State and Pittsburgh will play next September 2016. One thing is for sure Narduzzi isn’t afraid of recruiting classes and Penn State is sure to bring a good one. Another football team in Pennsylvania has begun to lock horns with Penn State as the win for Temple is sure to win some kids over perhaps Narduzzi is just guarding his territory too.