Pitt's Perceived Weaknesses (Part III of IV): Paul Chryst

Earlier this week, we took a look at some of Pitt's perceived weaknesses for 2012. Today we continue with the third part of the 'series' - new head coach Paul Chryst.

There's no denying Chryst's inexperience as a head coach. This is his first season in such a position and that can't be argued. But here's why I think Chryst can have some early success.

For one, Chryst is coaching a team still in the Big East - without West Virginia now, easily the weakest of the six BCS conferences. He may be just learning the ropes, but there's no better place to do that than with a team with talent on both sides of the ball in a weak league.

And while Chryst is a rookie when it comes to being a head coach, he's been a top assistant for several seasons. Not only that, but he's been one of the most recognized assistants when talking about potential head coaches. Chryst has experience as a coordinator, which really is the next best thing to being a head coach.

On top of that, coming from Wisconsin, Chryst has been a part of one of the most successful teams in college football. His offenses have been sound, but explosive. This isn't Todd Graham or Michael Haywood having some success in non-AQ leagues, but a top assistant helping to lead an extremely good team in the Big Ten.

There's the recruiting knock, but while it's far too early to determine what type of recruiter he can be, that has no bearing on Pitt winning in 2012. The biggest negative with Chryst for next year is how he'll call the shots as the main guy in actual game action. But as a coordinator, he's used to calling plays, anyway, and his new coordinators will help in that regard.

Paul Chryst may be new, but I'm not sure he's a reason the Panthers can't win the Big East in 2012.

Check back later for Part IV - the final post in the series.

Be sure to join Cardiac Hill's Facebook page and follow us on Twitter @PittPantherBlog for our regular updates on Pitt football and basketball.