Sept. 14, 2009

       PITTSBURGH—Pitt senior middle linebacker Adam Gunn has been named the Big East Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in the Panthers’ 54-27 victory at Buffalo this past weekend.

       Gunn (Vandergrift, Pa./Kiski Area) had three quarterback sacks and 11 total tackles to pace the Panthers’ defense. His three sacks went for 25 yards in losses, including a key six-yard sack in the fourth quarter that turned back a UB scoring threat that reached the Pitt 14.

       Through two games, Gunn leads Pitt in tackles (19), sacks (five) and tackles for loss (5.5).  He is also prominent among the NCAA’s leading defenders this week, ranking second nationally in sacks (tied, 2.50 sacks/game) and fourth in tackles for loss (tied, 2.75 TFLs/game).

       It has been a satisfying start to the season for Gunn, who 12 months ago broke his neck in the Panthers’ opening game and missed his entire senior year. Granted a sixth year by the NCAA, Gunn vigorously rehabilitated during the offseason and earned the starting middle linebacker position vacated by All-America Scott McKillop.

       Gunn earned his bachelor's degree in communication and rhetoric in 2008. He is currently enrolled in Pitt's prestigious Graduate School of Public and International Affairs and will graduate in December.

       Pitt (2-0) hosts Navy (1-1) this Saturday, Sept. 19, at Heinz Field. The game will kick off at 6 p.m. For ticket information, call (800) 643-PITT or log on to www.PittsburghPanthers.com.

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