Pitt, WVU childhood favs for LB

Growing up, linebacker Dane Conwell out of Upper St. Clair, Pa. was a fan of rivals West Virginia and Pittsburgh. He is in a tricky situation as his father Dane played in Morgantown and his mother went to Pittsburgh for college. Will these close contacts influence the 6-foot-1, 205-pounder's decision on where to play his college ball?

"I grew up a fan of both schools, but they have only sent me a little bit of stuff so far. I really like them more because of how close to home they are than my parents contacts there," he said. "At this time I have no favorites, but I've gotten mail from a lot of other schools including Northwestern, Indiana, Purdue and more."

This weekend Conwell is taking a junior day to Pittsburgh on February 25th. What is the linebacker prospect looking for out of a college?

"I really want to go somewhere that has good academics. I also want to have an opportunity to play relatively early. Those are big factors for me."

Last season Conwell ran for 870 yards and 11 touchdowns. He registered nine sacks as well on his way to being named first team all-conference.

"My ability to cut on offense is very good and then on defense I have a knack for making plays, particularly big plays."

Conwell is considering attending the Nike Camp at Penn State along with summer camps at Pittsburgh, Northwestern, Louisville and Ohio State.