Pitt’s Lewis Presents Problem

Posted Oct 20, 2009 by Joey Johnston

Updated Oct 20, 2009 at 10:48 AM

The University of South Florida Bulls had become accustomed to a rugged challenge from Pittsburgh running back LeSean McCoy, who compiled back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons.

Then McCoy left early for the NFL draft.

But the No. 20-ranked Panthers (6-1, 3-0), who host USF (5-1, 1-1) in Saturday afternoon’s Big East Conference game, haven’t missed a beat.

Freshman running back Dion Lewis, who rushed for 180 yards and two touchdowns at Rutgers, has 918 yards overall to rank second nationally. Lewis was New Jersey’s offensive player of the year and entered Pitt in January, getting the benefit of a full spring practice.

Panthers coach Dave Wannstedt said the recruiting process was simple with Lewis, a 5-foot-8, 195-pounder.

“We watched about four plays, turned the projector off and offered him a scholarship,’’ Wannstedt said. “He hasn’t wavered since he has been here. Seven games in, and he has handled it so well, better than we could’ve imagined.’‘