Pitt crippled by suspensions and dismissals

Narduzzi dismissed senior defensive end Rori Blair from the team for “conduct detrimental to the program.” Two players, senior linebacker Quintin Wirginis and junior safety Jordan Whitehead, will both be suspended for the opening three games of the season for violation of team policy.

Junior offensive tackle Alex Bookser will be suspended for the season opener for his involvement in an offseason legal situation involving a motor vehicle.

“Alex Bookser will sit out the season-opening game and has also been subject to internal disciplinary measures and accountability. I’m confident he will make better decisions moving forward.

“In addition to sitting out multiple games, Quintin and Jordan will continue to be held accountable to internal standards of conduct.”

The Panthers will be without Bookser for their opening-game against Youngstown State, while Wirginis and Whitehead will miss Youngstown State and games at Penn State and at home against Oklahoma State.

“Our program’s foundation will always be built on discipline and personal responsibility,” Narduzzi said. “These are highly disappointing situations but I am hopeful that each of these young men will be better, stronger and wiser after taking accountability for their actions.
 
In addition to these four personnel moves, Narduzzi threw starting defensive tackle Jeremiah Taleni off the team last spring.