SDWC: Do you anticipate any QBs other than Stull & Cross playing on Saturday?

Paul Zeise: Not unless there is a blow out. Then it wouldn't shock me if we see Kevan Smith as coaches will do their best to preserve the redshirt on Pat Bostick. And I wouldn't say it is 100 percent that Greg Cross will play as the game plan for these first few games might be a little vanilla until the offense gains some confidence and continuity. So in short -- the only QB I can say for certain we will see in the game is Bill Stull, though we might see Cross.

theWellHungarian: Can Jonathan Baldwin have the same or similar impact as a freshman as A.B. & Fitzy had as freshmen? I remember A.B.'s freshman year & everyone was expecting Latef Grim to explode & Bryant stole the show. I think everyone is expecting big things from Kinder & am thinking Baldwin can do the same ... Thoughts?

Paul Zeise: I think it will be tough just because he is playing in a different position -- a tailback touches the ball nearly every down and can control a game. A receiver can be an impact player -- but he'll get three or four touches a game, maybe, so I don't know that he'll have as big of a year as McCoy did last year. I know what Fitzgerald did as a freshman, but that was in a pass-happy offense -- and as we've seen, this is certainly not a pass-first offense -- so it will be tough for Baldwin to have that big of an impact. Remember, he isn't even the starter at this point.

ScaryMAC: Whats the latest on Shane Murray? Do you think he is going to start on Saturday?

Paul Zeise: I think Austin Ransom will start the game. I will be very shocked if Shane Murray plays because based on my experience when a player is listed as day-to-day, it is usually coachspeak for "he isn't going to be ready but we want to keep them guessing."

D_Dedmon: Honestly, is Joe Thomas really as bad as his play is made out to be, or is it more of an observation relative to the strength of the rest of the unit?

Paul Zeise: He just hasn't been very consistent. I also think that maybe his upside was overstated a little bit when he was recruited -- so I don't know exactly how much better he will get. He has had some good days, but coaches are nervous because he's had too many days where he's gotten beat early and often. I think he is adequate but he needs to be better than that and he needs to be more consistent than he has been.

SDWC: Who do you expect to be the primary punt and kickoff returners?

Paul Zeise: Aundre Wright and LaRod Stephens-Howling -- which means every kick-off has a chance to be a big play because both of them are fast and elusive.

theWellHungarian: Other than the obvious players (ie: Shady, Stull, Kinder, McKillop, etc), who do you see breaking out & opening everyone's eyes this year?

Paul Zeise: Jabaal Sheard is going to be a monster, I think. He will be really, really good and he will be a handful for offensive linemen to deal with. He is the player I am most excited about seeing play because I think he'll have a great year.

ScaryMAC: What happened to John Bauchman? He started a few games last year for us and now I don't see him on the depth chart anywhere.

Paul Zeise: Just hasn't really developed. He had a real fast learning curve his first season and he seems to have leveled off and he has been passed by. He didn't work out at center, they tried him at tackle then guard -- he just hasn't really gotten better in his time. He is now fallen on the depth chart to the point where he's not even on the two-deep any more.

theWellHungarian: What's going on with Brandon Lindsay? The kid looks like he should be on the Steelers side of the South Side complex. Is he just having a tough time with assignments, schemes, & positioning?

Paul Zeise: He is doing fine -- he is a redshirt freshman and he is second-team behind a fifth-year senior (Adam Gunn). There is nothing going on with him -- he was injured some during camp and fell behind a little bit but he is right on schedule. I'm not sure what more you could expect from him.

SouthHillz4Life: Paul, is Shane Murray going to be able to play this week? I mean, he's from Hazelwood, so he's probably tough enough to play through injury, isn't he?

Paul Zeise: Yes, Hazelwood guys are tough guys but not even a Hazelwood guy like Murray is tough enough to overcome a knee injury like he suffered in a week. I'd expect him to get back in the saddle soon enough though ...

D_Dedmon: Would I be wrong to believe people comparing Jonathan Baldwin to Larry Fitzgerald already is a little premature, and completely unfair to Baldwin? That said, Baldwin plus or minus seven touchdowns this season?

Paul Zeise: Yes that is not fair. Remember Larry came here from prep school, so he was a year older and more mature than Baldwin was. Also, I'm going to go out on a limb and say the passing offense at Aliquippa is not exactly complex so Baldwin's learning curve at receiver is much stepper than Larry's was as well. And the other thing, like I said before, in Walt's offense, there were plenty of receptions for receivers to grab but Baldwin won't have that luxury as this offense is built around the tailback. I think Baldwin has some similar talents, but he is not as refined as Larry was. And 7 TD's -- I'd say that sounds about right.

ScaryMAC: Is there any chance M. Williams ever comes back to Pitt? Whats the status on him?

Paul Zeise: No, last I heard, he was at Edinboro.

theWellHungarian: I see 8 W's ... You?

Paul Zeise: I set the over/under for this team at 8 wins -- more is a great season, less is a disappointment. But yes, 8 seems to be about right.

SouthHillz4Life: Paul, how tall are you?

Paul Zeise: Taller than anyone else who covers Pitt football for a living ...

ScaryMAC: If Pitt gets up big in the first half and Stull is pulled to prevent injury, who do you think they put in at QB?

Paul Zeise: Like I said -- Kevan Smith. They will do whatever they can to preserve a redshirt on Pat Bostick. Now, if Stull got hurt and was out for an extended period -- I'd say Bostick would step in and be the guy. But in a short term situation or a mop-up situation, it will be Kevan Smith.

ScaryMAC: I remember reading about Burns looking real good in camp. Everyone who watched the spring game knows about Harris. Who won the 3rd tailback spot?

Paul Zeise: That is a great question. It will be very interesting to see -- the coaches will likely lean towards Harris just because that would enable them to redshirt Burns, but if there is an injury, both are going to have to play.

ScaryMAC: I know this year has not even started yet but it looks as though Pitt could even have a better team next year with almost the entire offensive and defensive lines. What are your thoughts?

Paul Zeise: Um, could we at least get through the opener this year before you start making plans to go to the BCS national championship next year? A lot can happen (injuries, defections, transfers, academic suspensions) between now and then ...

SouthHillz4Life: Paul, do you know what Vegas' over/under is on Pitt season tickets?

Paul Zeise: Would that include all season tickets plus complimentary seats? I guess it would be 43,567.

HailtoPitt: Do they plan on using Fields in any capacity that would get him on the field more, such as punt or kickoff returns?

Paul Zeise: No, they have plenty of athletes for those returner positions. I think he will play some on the special teams units as a coverage guy or whatever, but he has plenty to digest at his safety spot. Also, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised to see the number of ways they'll use him on defense and I wouldn't be shocked if he plays, in some formations, that nickel linebacker spot.

theWellHungarian: Where is Elijah Fields on the depth chart?

Paul Zeise: He is the third safety and I am fairly certain he is the nickel back in passing situations and they'll use him in some other capacities as well.

D_Dedmon: I realize Bowling Green runs the no huddle spread, but even with five or six DB's on the field, do you expect the Falcons' inexperienced O-line to allow frequent penetration by Pitt's D-line?

Paul Zeise: The key will be how fast Bowling Green's QB can get rid of the ball. It seems like it is a timing and rythym offense -- one that will be shotgun and a quick throw so I don't know how good the line really has to be. The only time they'll run the ball is when the matchup suits them, so again, I don't think the line play will be as much of a factor as it will be in some games. Pitt just needs to make tackles.

SouthHillz4Life: Paul, have you ever been to Hazelwood?

Paul Zeise: Yes, but I wasn't tough enough so I had to leave.

pittpanther: I saw a rumor that Walt Harris might be joining Ohio State as a consultant or a coach. Have you heard anything?

Paul Zeise: From what I understand he was just out there visiting practice because he was in Columbus. From what I understand he is like Bill Stull two years ago -- he needs work.

PrideofPittsburgh: If Rob Houser gets hurt, do we have a capable back-up that could step up and play?

Paul Zeise: No. There is a walk-on right now listed as the back-up. Houser to me is one player the Panthers absolutely can not lose because the depth chart behind him is very questionable.

dweezil1: As far Lindsay I would think he would be a better option than Austin Ransom on the other side replacing Murray?

Paul Zeise: No, he doesn't play that weakside position nor has he. And frankly Austin Ransom played safety most of his career and against Bowling Green, a five-wide spread team, his ability to cover guys out of the backfield and cover receivers is why he jumped to the head of the class when Murray went down.

Pitt_love_in_Philly: If Stull has struggles early on this season, what do you feel it will take for Wanny to pull him in favor of another of Pitt's many QBs?

Paul Zeise: Wow -- This could be a very interesting development. I don't know -- I think if he loses a game with interceptions or bad decisions and he gets into an extended slump -- then it might be the point where Wannstedt starts to look at a Pat Bostick and say "we need to make a change" But I think that point would take some time to reach because coaches like and believe in Bill Stull.

PrideofPittsburgh: What are the odds on seeing the old Pitt Script uniforms running out of the tunnel this Saturday?

Paul Zeise: zero

D_Dedmon: Will Shady top 200 rushing yards in this game?

Paul Zeise: He could -- though I would think if he is running that well he'll be sitting on the bench in the fourth quarter resting because the Panthers will be blowing Bowling Green out. It all depends on the start he gets off to -- if he starts out strong, he usually only gets stronger and starts to run down hill, so to speak.

PrideofPittsburgh: Paul, do you have any pre-game rituals?

Paul Zeise: Make sure I get to the pre-game press box buffet early enough to get the complimentary French toast and eggs while they are still warm.

pittpanther: Joe Bendel probably gives you a run for your money height-wise when he covers Pitt football.

Paul Zeise: No, I am taller than him, though he would probably be the one guy who can post me up and have a chance to score.

HailtoPitt: If they don't win at least 8 this year is Wanny in trouble?

Paul Zeise: No. Seven he is fine because it would mean a bowl game and progress -- six could get dicey, though.

pittfan: Paul your a big guy. Did you play football in H.S. or college?

Paul Zeise: No, I played America's REAL game -- basketball.... Ha Ha

D_Dedmon: Do you have a score prediction for this week's game?

Paul Zeise: I'd say something like Pitt 34, Bowling Green 20. That sounds about right to me.

D_Dedmon: I guess Walt didn't invest?

Paul Zeise: Oh, I don't know about all that -- I just meant, he is still looking for a job. But I think he is still getting paid by Stanford, so I am sure he is fine.

HailtoPitt: Should we expect to see any "special" uniforms this year?

Paul Zeise: I'm not sure what you mean -- blue on blue? Those hideous Georgia Tech yellow uniforms? We'll see.

pittpanther: Does Pitt plan on throwing the ball to Nate Byham this year?

Paul Zeise: You'd hope. He is a tremendous tight end and a guy whose talents have gone under-utilized in so many ways throughout his career. I really expect both him and Dorin Dickerson to have big seasons. Nate is a guy who can be a difference-maker for Pitt, but they need to get him involved in the game plan early and often.

SouthHillz4Life: Paul, if you had to pick one Neil Diamond song to be played in between the third and fourth quarters of home Pitt football games, what would it be?

Paul Zeise: Forever in Blue Jeans is my favorite Neil Diamond song, but then again, there is no place in that song where he goes Bah, bah, bah -- and then students couldn't yell "Let's Go Pitt" so it has to be Sweet Caroline.

pittpanther: Realistically from what you have heard, how long will Shane Murray be out?

Paul Zeise: Hard to say -- a twisted knee is one of those tricky injuries that can heal quickly or linger. I'd expect he'll be back by next week's game and if not, certainly by Iowa, which is three weeks away. The worst thing they can do is rush him back.

PrideofPittsburgh: Which freshman (redshirt or true) will have the biggest impact against BG Saturday?

Paul Zeise: Redshirt freshman or true freshman? Hmmm, good question. I guess the obvious one is Jonathan Baldwin.

Dan: Paul, please tell me that the program is close to having good talent and depth at O-line. I'd love to stop reading your annual 'the o-line is a big question mark' statement. If WVU can have a good to very good O-line there's no reason Pitt shouldn't.

Paul Zeise: You look at some of the younger guys and you'd hope so. Chris Jacobson and Lucas Nix are obviously very good -- but the rest, well they have some work to do. Greg Gaskins, Jordan Gibbs, Dan Matha, John Fieger -- these guys are still young but they should be pushing harder for playing time right now and they just aren't. So we'll have to see how they develop. Remember though that Pinkston is a redshirt sophomore, Malecki is a junior and Houser is a junior, so this unit will be for the most part intact next year as well

PittDC: How focused does the team seem with Bowling Green being the first game? Any chance they are looking ahead? Bowling Green is no pushover, so I hope not.

Paul Zeise: I think one of the best things about this group is they aren't caught up in a lot of the hype and stuff surrounding the season -- they seem to be dialed in and they understand they haven't accomplished a thing. If they get beat Saturday it won't be because they overlooked anyone.

pittLA:: What do you think is most likely - Fiesta Bowl or 2,000 yards for Shady?

Paul Zeise: I think LeSean McCoy will have an opportunity to get 2,000 and if he does, perhaps it would lead to a Fiesta Bowl. But if I have to pick I'd say a 2,000-yard season because he will certainly get as many carries as he needs.

SouthHillz4Life: Paul, who is tougher - kids from Hazelwood, Braddock, Duquesne, or Clairton?

Paul Zeise: Um, I have no idea. I guess if we took Shane Murray, Tyre Young, Elijah Fields and Manny Williams and put them in an MMA cage we could find out!!!

dweezil1: What exactly is the problem with Joe Thomas? Is it physical or is it mental? He really has performed well below expectations.

Paul Zeise: I think a little of both. I think motivation has sometimes been an issue but he seems to be more motivated this year so maybe this is the year he finally arrives. He has some tools and a good body to work with so there is no reason he can't be a good player, he just hasn't been to this point.

pittpanther: Where do you think Pitt will finish in Big East? Who do you think will win Big East?

Paul Zeise: I think it is hard to pick against West Virginia -- they have so much offensive firepower that they will be able to outscore anyone they play. That is a huge advantage. South Florida is talented, but they seem to self-destruct every year and lose too many games because of mistakes and turnovers and whatnot. I think Pitt will finish third and get a decent bowl game, which is realistic. And on that note, I must run. Thanks for all the great questions and we will see you next week at the same time on the same channel. Remember: "Where it began, I can't begin to know when ..."