Q: It looks to me like Pitt has a very promising group of young defensive ends with Greg Romeus, Doug Fullmer, Jabaal Sheard and Tony Tucker. Do you think that Pitt is finally getting the athletes on the defensive line that it needs?

Jared M.

Murraysville, Pa.

Zeise: Absolutely. And I think if you add in players such as Mick Williams and Tommie Duhart and Gus Mustakas (looking ahead to next year) there is no question that Dave Wannstedt has delivered on his promise to rebuild the defensive line. Romeus has a chance to be one of these guys, who, three years from now, we are talking about being a first-round draft pick. He has that kind of ability and it is evident by the fact that coaches can't keep him off the field. And Tucker and Sheard have special talent, too. There is no doubt this defensive line could be really something to behold next year.

Q: How come Scotty McKillop does not get more recognition nationally as an All American candidate? The guy is 2nd nationally in tackles and the only hype in our region is for 2 pretty good LB's that play for PSU. This kid needs and deserves some love!

Jon Knobbers

Johnstown, Pa.

Zeise: Unfortunately, it is tough to get much love nationally on a losing team no matter how many tackles you get. For one thing, Pitt has only been on national TV twice (I guess if you count ESPNU, a channel that nobody I know seems to get, four times) so a lot of people don't get to see him play. The best thing that can happen for any of these players winning individual awards is winning games.

Q: After the success versus Cincinnati, do you feel as though the coaching staff will continue to let the defense play more aggressively?

Clay Baker

Columbia, Md.

Zeise: One would hope, but each game is different. And you are right -- it was much more interesting to watch, which is why I enjoy watching Rutgers. I'm not sure Greg Schiano ever met a blitz package he doesn't like and they just get after it on every play. Also, if you talk to Pitt's players, they enjoyed playing that way and they believe that by being more aggressive, they were able to force the turnovers and play faster.