Pitt's Pat Narduzzi reveals names of freshmen who could play this season

Pat Narduzzi wants it both ways.

He is curious to see what his freshmen have learned in training camp. But who can tell if the guys don’t play in real games?

Yet, if Narduzzi plays them in five or more games, there goes the redshirt and one precious year of eligibility. And coaches prefer to redshirt freshmen so they can retain eligibility in their fifth year on campus when they’re stronger and smarter.

Narduzzi wasn’t expected to play many freshmen Saturday night in the season opener against Virginia at Heinz Field. Running back Vincent Davis, purported to be a 5-foot-8 playmaker who has made some nice runs in closed scrimmages, was likely an exception.

Narduzzi also said wide receiver Jared Wayne has earned playing time. Wayne, a 6-3, 190-pound Canadian, averaged nearly 19 yards per reception last season at Clearwater (Fla.) International Academy.

“You’re going to see Jared Wayne out there Saturday,” Narduzzi said. “He’s continued to stand out. He continues to run great routes and catch the football. He’s a very mature kid. We’re excited about him.”

The coach listed several other freshmen who could play at some point this season, most likely in no more than four games.

Narduzzi was especially complimentary of tight end Kyi Wright, who led Farrell to a state championship last season as a quarterback and linebacker.

“He’s going to be a great player,” Narduzzi said of the 6-2, 240-pound Wright. “We’re excited about him. His future is going to be outstanding. I can see him seeing the field this season, for sure.”

At defensive end, Bam Brima, 6-5, 235, has a shot to play this season.

“I wouldn’t be shocked to see that big sucker play later on in the year,” Narduzzi said. “He’s going to be a really good player.”

Linebackers SirVocea Dennis and Leslie Smith are pushing their more experienced teammates for playing time.

“SirVocea wil play for us,” said Narduzzi, noting he has taken reps with the second team.

Dennis, the first of the Pitt freshmen to turn 19 years old, spent a post-graduate high school year at The Peddie School in New Jersey. Smith fought through an injury this summer, but Narduzzi said he is “jockeying back and forth” with Dennis for playing time.

Brandon Hill is working his way into the mix at safety, and cornerback A.J. Woods can’t be ignored because he might be the fastest player on the field, the coach said.

“A.J. will find a role somewhere soon,” Narduzzi said.

Just not too soon. No matter how fast Woods can run, Narduzzi would prefer not to play a freshman at the difficult cornerback position.

“But he’ll help us on special teams,” he said.

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