One of the biggest questions Pitt will face going into the offseason is how it will replace outgoing quarterback Nathan Peterman. The Panthers might find the answer in the form of a graduate transfer.
Former 5-star signal-caller Max Browne is transferring out of USC for his final year of eligibility. Pitt recently hosted the Sammamish, Wash., native for a visit and made a positive impression:
Big thanks to @Pitt_FB @CoachDuzzPittFB for the awesome visit – great team, school and city! #H2P
— Max Browne (@MaxBrowne4) December 13, 2016
Browne, who will be eligible to play in 2017, arrived at Southern Cal as the No. 1 pro-style quarterback and No. 11 overall prospect in the 2013 class, per 247Sports’ composite rankings. After redshirting in 2013, he served primarily as a backup over the last three seasons but started three games for the Trojans this fall. The 6-5, 220-pounder is 69-of-112 in his career for 650 yards and two touchdowns (with two interceptions).
Pitt will graduate two-year starter Peterman after its Pinstripe Bowl matchup against Northwestern on Dec. 28. Soon-to-be sophomore Ben DiNucci will compete with currently redshirting freshman Thomas MacVittie for the starting job. According to TribLive.com, sophomore Bo Schneider — who is sitting out this season as a transfer from UCF — might leave the program.