Will Tom Ricketts See The Field In 2012?

Pitt's offensive line is thin - we all know that. But one option I haven't heard much about is transfer Tom Ricketts. Ricketts transferred from Penn State and sat out last season.

Getting him was really a coup for Pitt. He didn't play at Penn State in 2010 as a true freshman, but Pitt is hurting for linemen and he'll provide depth at the very least. At first glance, I was a bit surprised about is that Scout didn't include him on their projected two deep rotation. But a closer examination shows that he's going to have to beat out some upperclassmen for time. Ricketts' main competition for time at tackle behind presumed starters Juantez Hollins and Matt Rotheram are senior Justin Virbitsky and junior Zenel Demhasaj. Virbitsky actually converted to tight end, but is back on the line.

If Ricketts is unable to beat out Virbitsky or Demhasaj, he'll likely see little or no time. The other factor is, of course, injuries. Even a single injury would probably thrust Ricketts into action as a backup.

He's only a sophomore so if he doesn't get onto the field in 2012, it's not a huge deal. Still, it'd be nice to see him compete for one of those backup spots since it would mean Pitt is even deeper at tackle.

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