Pitt staff erupts in cheers over commitment of hometown recruit Hamlin
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Pat Narduzzi, the longtime Michigan State defensive coordinator, gestures as he speaks at an NCAA college news conference in Pittsburgh where he was introduced as the new head football coach for Pittsburgh, Friday, Dec. 26, 2014. Narduzzi replaces Paul Chryst who left Pitt last week after three seasons to become the coach at Wisconsin. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
The realm of college football recruiting can offer euphoric highs and colossal lows. For the Pitt football staff on Monday, it was sheer jubilation, with the commitment of defensive back Damar Hamlin.
Regarded as one of the top prospects in the state of Pennsylvania, the elite athlete elected to stay home and play for his hometown Panthers. Hamlin had also been considering the likes of Ohio State, Penn State, Auburn, UCLA and Notre Dame, among others.
Via head coach Pat Narduzzi's personal Twitter page, a video displayed the staff's reaction to Hamlin's television announcement.
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Nearly in unison, the group exploded with cheers, hugs, fist pumps and high-fives. Pitt is getting a physical, athletic, hard-nosed player. Hamlin's versatility enables him to play as both a safety and corner.
In essence, he's a perfect fit for how a Narduzzi defense likes to play.