Pitt filled a large need in their 2010 recruiting class today -- and did so with their largest and highest rated recruit in this current class.

North Olmstead, OH, offensive lineman Matt Rotheram committed to the Panthers this afternoon making him the 12th player from the class of 2010 to commit to them thus far. Rotheram (6-feet-6, 310 pounds) is a highly rated prospect.

Rivals.com ranks him as a "four-star prospect" and the recruiting service also ranks him as the ninth best guard prospect in the country.

He had about 30 scholarship offers, including from Wisconsin, Illinois, Purdue, Indiana, LSU, Arizona, Michigan State, Iowa and Cincinnati. He said his three finalists were Purdue, Indiana and Pitt and once he compared them it was really no contest in his mind.

"I was looking for a school that was close to home in which I'd fit into the offense," Rotheram said. "Pitt offered me everything I wanted academically, proximity to my house and football as well. I really like the coaching staff and the pro-style offense is a great fit for me. That was a big selling point.

"The coaches told me they'd like to try me first at right tackle but I can play inside or outside and I am just thankful for the opportunity."