Pitt picks up Florida QB

With his ties to Florida, head coach Dave Wannstedt of Pittsburgh plucked his first prospect out of the Sunshine State in Coconut Creek (Fla.) North Broward Prep quarterback Dexter Davidson. The 6-foot-4, 211-pounder with 4.7-second speed chose the Panthers over offers from Brigham Young, Kentucky and Rutgers.

"My father, my coach and I sat down last night and called coach Partridge and Wannstedt about my decision," he said. "Coach Wannstedt was very excited and he thought I made a very good decision. He was excited for me to come down on my visit September 3rd."

What stood out about Pittsburgh to the three-star prospect?

"I'd probably have to say their coaching staff with coach Cavanaugh and Wannstedt," he said. "They have so much NFL experience and I think they can help me be the best player I can be on the college level. Then with a great quarterback like Tyler Palko in front of me that will make the transition even easier. Finally, they have a wonderful recruiting class and that is something I wanted to be a part of."

With multiple offers in hand, what made Davidson want to decide now?

"I've just been thinking that Pittsburgh is a top-of-the-line school and they have such a great coaching staff. I know Pittsburgh is going to get better and compete for a National Championship in the years to come," he said. "Now I feel a bit relieved after making the decision, but really excited. I'm grateful for the opportunity to go to Pitt and prove myself and show what I can do. I can't wait to go up there."

The No. 20 pro-style quarterback in the country hopes to bring a lot to the table for the Panthers.

"Coming in, I think I can bring really strong leadership and a great attitude," he said. "I know Palko can help me to get better and when it's my turn to step up to the plate I'll be there."

In preparation for that time, Davidson is working on a few things over the next year to get better.

"I'm lifting and hitting the weight room a lot harder now," he said. "I'm also working on my footwork, five-step drop and under center. I know once I go to college it's a whole other level and I'm basically working on everything to get ready."

The No. 70 player in Florida has his official scheduled for the Notre Dame game next month. What is he hoping to see in that game and on television from his new team this season?

"When I watch them, I'm going to watch the offensive style to get a general idea of what kind of offense they run," he said. "I'm also watching their offensive line because that's key to any team. Finally, I'll keep an eye on Palko to see what reads and decisions he makes."

Davidson threw for 2,500 yards and 27 touchdowns as a junior.