Another "name" set to join the staff?

   Ok, so graduate assistants aren't really that much of a factor nor are they a big deal (heck, when they are hired it is rarely even formally announced until spring ball starts), but it appears as if Pitt's next defensive graduate assistant could be none other than former quarterback Rod Rutherford. He would replace Greg Williams, who took a job with the San Diego Chargers.

   Again, not a big deal other than Rutherford's history and the fact that he became somewhat of a folk hero among Pitt fans the day he committed to the Panthers shortly after Tom Bradley and Joe Paterno visited him --- and then two years later cemented that legacy when, as a redshirt freshman, he scored the game-clinching touchdown in Pitt's 12-0 win over Penn State in the last game between the two teams.

  And also, how many other teams can say they are adding a graduate assistant who has a Super Bowl ring (remember, he was a practice squad player for the Steelers the year they beat the Seahawks)? 

  Last season Rutherford got hired as the defensive backs coach at St. Vincent so even though he played quarterback, he seems to be on a path to coach defense, though it is so early in his career that could change (see Walt Harris's bio....).

  Here's hoping it works out for him with Pitt as he is receiving strong consideration for the spot.

  Of course, given the Panthers current quarterback situation, the cynical among us would probably add "is there any chance he has any eligibility left or perhaps Dave Wannstedt could petition to get him a sixth year........"