BTN.com staff, December 23, 2014
Highly respected Michigan State defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi is finally getting his shot, according to reports.
The 2013 Broyles Award winner as the nation's top assistant coach, Narduzzi is expected to be named the new head coach at Pittsburgh, a position that opened up when Paul Chryst took the Wisconsin job.
Narduzzi, who came to Michigan State with Mark Dantonio in 2007, has served as the Spartans' defensive coordinator since arriving on campus.
In 2014, Narduzzi's unit ranked No. 7 in total defense, its fourth straight season in the top 10. Michigan State's defense was No. 2 in the nation last season during its memorable Big Ten and Rose Bowl Game championships run.
Narduzzi was the highest-paid coordinator in the Big Ten in 2014, earning $907,033.
Pitt went 6-6 this season and will play Houston in the Armed Forces Bowl.
Narduzzi would be Pitt's third coach since alum Dave Wannstedt left at the end of 2010.
As FOX reported this weekend, #MSU DC Pat Narduzzi favorite for #Pitt. Am told Panther brass did interview a few candidates via phone Monday
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) December 23, 2014
Pat Narduzzi is not likely to be introduced by Pitt until later in the week, possibly Friday.
— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) December 23, 2014