In 2010, the Pittsburgh Panthers football team had ambitious expectations, entering a weaker Big East conference with a roster brimming with talent. With aspirations for a BCS bowl game, the Panthers finished the season at 8-5 (5-2 in conference), securing a spot in the BBVA Compass Bowl against Kentucky. While the season was a mixed bag, it was clear that several players were poised for big things. Among them was defensive lineman Brandon Lindsey.
Lindsey, who emerged as a standout player in his junior season, was called into action when Greg Romeus went down with injury. His breakout year featured 51 tackles and 10 sacks, playing across from Big East Defensive Player of the Year Jabaal Sheard. With a new era under Coach Todd Graham and a revamped system, Lindsey had his sights set on an even bigger season in 2011. We sat down with the now senior defensive star to talk about his journey, the impact of the new coaching staff, his aspirations, and more.
Q: Brandon, how would you compare Coach Todd Graham’s approach to Coach Dave Wannstedt’s?
Brandon Lindsey:
Under Coach Wannstedt, we were taught the basics: stay out of trouble and behave. With Coach Graham, there’s no room for error—it’s about setting a standard. We’re student-athletes at the University of Pittsburgh, and our conduct, both on and off the field, reflects that. As far as football goes, the biggest difference is the switch from a pro-style offense to a fast-paced, spread system.
Q: You made an interesting decision to change your jersey number from 35 to 7. What motivated that change?
Brandon Lindsey:
It’s a personal tribute to my grandmother. She passed away on January 7, just before our Bowl game, and I wanted to honor her memory. Changing my number felt like the right thing to do.
Q: Coach Graham mentioned that you’ll be playing the “Panther Linebacker” position, similar to what Lamarr Woodley did for the Steelers. How would you describe this new role?
Brandon Lindsey:
It’s essentially a hybrid role, where I’ll still be a lineman but with more versatility. I need to be able to stop the run, rush the quarterback, and occasionally drop back into coverage. It’s all about keeping the offense guessing. You’ll see me coming from different angles and creating pressure, but always in a way that disguises where I’m coming from.
Q: The up-tempo offense has been getting a lot of attention, but how would you describe the defensive system?
Brandon Lindsey:
It’s very similar to the offense in that it’s fast-paced. We’re not going to let the offense dictate what happens; we’re going to control the game. Our main priorities will be creating turnovers, stopping the run, and applying pressure on the quarterback.
Q: Given the pace of Coach Graham’s offense, do you think the defense will struggle with stamina on the field?
Brandon Lindsey:
Definitely. It’s going to be a challenge, with more plays and more action. But we’re preparing ourselves by focusing on conditioning. We know we have to be in top shape to handle the workload.
Q: Tulsa’s defense struggled despite high offensive rankings under Coach Graham. How do you think the Panthers will fare, especially with the loss of key players like Jabaal Sheard and Greg Romeus?
Brandon Lindsey:
It’s going to be tough to replace them. Jabaal was a force, and Greg’s injury last year gave me an opportunity to step up. I’m ready to fill those shoes. We’re all motivated to carry on their legacy and continue to push ourselves for the team.
Q: Looking back, how much influence did Sheard and Romeus have on your development as a player?
Brandon Lindsey:
Greg especially had a huge impact. We trained together during the off-season, and when he got injured, he told me, “This is your time. Just be yourself, do what you do best.” That kind of advice stuck with me.
Q: Learning your third defensive system at Pitt, how’s the adjustment going?
Brandon Lindsey:
It’s always a challenge, but it’s something I’ve gotten used to. There’s a lot of new terminology, but we take it step by step. We’re doing a lot of film study and breaking down the plays to make sure we get it right.
Q: You’ve expressed confidence about playing at the next level. What are your goals for this season?
Brandon Lindsey:
Right now, I’m focused on helping this team win the Big East Championship and make a statement on the national stage. The NFL is definitely on my mind, but my priority is to help us achieve a BCS bid.
Q: Who are the players you looked up to growing up, and who has inspired you at Pitt?
Brandon Lindsey:
My parents were my biggest role models growing up. They always supported me and my brother. At Pitt, Scott McKillop was a huge influence—he took us under his wing when we were freshmen. As far as professional players, Ray Lewis and LaDainian Tomlinson were two guys I really admired.
Q: Coach Graham pointed out freshman running back Corey Davis as a player to watch. Who do you think will have a breakout season?
Brandon Lindsey:
Ray Graham is going to take his game to another level this year. He’s explosive, and with the spread offense, defenses won’t be able to focus on just one player. Devin Street and Mike Shanahan are also primed for big seasons.
Q: With Tino Sunseri securing the starting quarterback role, how’s he looking?
Brandon Lindsey:
Tino had some growing pains early on, but he’s looked much more comfortable recently. He’s embraced the new system and is ready to lead the offense.
Q: With key games against Utah, Notre Dame, and UConn this season, which ones are most important to you?
Brandon Lindsey:
All the games are important. Our goal is to go undefeated, and that starts with maintaining focus every week. We’ve learned from past seasons—one slip-up can cost you, so we need to stay locked in.
Q: The Big East might not be the strongest conference, but do you think this is the year Pitt takes the title?
Brandon Lindsey:
I truly believe this is our year. We’ve got the talent, the mindset, and the motivation to finish what we started a few years ago.
Q: What made you choose Pitt over other schools?
Brandon Lindsey:
Pitt felt like home. The coaching staff, the atmosphere, and the chance to stay close to my family all played a big part in my decision.
Q: What’s it like to share a facility with the Steelers?
Brandon Lindsey:
It’s an incredible experience. The Steelers are always there to offer advice, and they’re great guys. They don’t act like superstars, and they’re always willing to help us out.
Q: With the NFL lockout causing issues, what are your thoughts on the situation?
Brandon Lindsey:
The lockout is hurting everyone, from fans to players. It needs to be resolved so that we can get back to football and help the economy get back on track.
Q: The Big Ten recently discussed paying college athletes. Do you think athletes should be compensated?
Brandon Lindsey:
I don’t think athletes need to be paid, but there should be more recognition of what we do. It’s not just a four-month job—it’s a year-round commitment. People need to understand the sacrifices we make, both physically and mentally.
Q: Lastly, why should fans come out and support the Panthers this season?
Brandon Lindsey:
It’s going to be an exciting year! We’re bringing a high-powered offense, a tough defense, and a lot of energy to Heinz Field. We want everyone—friends, family, and alumni—to come out and experience it with us. This is our time.
PSB: Thanks for your time, Brandon, and good luck this season!
Brandon Lindsey: No problem, and thanks for the support. Go Panthers!