Feb. 11, 2008

      PITTSBURGH-Nine University of Pittsburgh football players have been named to the Big East All-Academic Football Team.

      The Big East All-Academic Team recognizes letterwinners who have posted a cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 or better. Student-athletes who have completed a minimum of two semesters of academic work and earned a letter are eligible.

      Long snapper Mark Estermyer (Chippewa, Pa./Blackhawk) was honored for the third consecutive year. Two of Pitt's other honorees were repeat selections from last year, including linebacker Adam Gunn (Vandergrift, Pa./Kiski Area) and placekicker Conor Lee (Upper St. Clair, Pa./Upper St. Clair/Fork Union Military Academy).  

      The Panthers' other honorees were tight end John Pelusi (Pittsburgh, Pa./Pittsburgh Central Catholic), wide receiver Austin Ransom (Williamsville, N.Y./Williamsville East), quarterback Kevan Smith (Cranberry Township, Pa./Seneca Valley), punter Lucas Stone (Bluefield, W.Va./Bluefield), defensive lineman Tyler Tkach (Slatington, Pa./Northern Lehigh) and tight end Dustin Walters (Eldersburg, Md./Liberty).