Sept. 25, 2006

   University of Pittsburgh senior quarterback Tyler Palko, who leads the country in pass efficiency and touchdown passes, has been named the Big East Offensive Player of the Week for his performance in the Panthers' 51-6 victory over The Citadel this past Saturday.

   Palko (Imperial, Pa./West Allegheny) completed over 88% of his passes (15 of 17) for 313 yards and four touchdowns with no interceptions against The Citadel. He hit his first nine passes of the game en route to an 88.2% completion percentage, the sixth highest single-game completion rate in Big East history. Palko's TD passes went to four different receivers and covered 20, 36, 22 and 52 yards.

   The nation's leader in pass efficiency, Palko boasts a 187.25 rating and also is tied for the national lead with 12 touchdown passes. He ranks fourth nationally in total passing yards (1,140) and points responsible for (18.0 ppg.). He is sixth in total offense (293.5 yards/game).

   Palko also reached a historic milestone Saturday, moving to fourth all-time at Pitt in both career passing yards (6,612) and total offense (6,655). He surpassed Hall of Fame tailback Tony Dorsett (6,526 total yards from 1973-76) and quarterback John Congemi (6,351 from 1983-86) in the latter category. Palko eclipsed Congemi's 6,467 career yards on the passing list.           

   This is the third time this season a Pitt player has been honored by the Big East. Previously, linebackers H.B. Blades (Sept. 11) and Clint Session (Sept. 4) were honored by the league.

   The Panthers (3-1) will host the Toledo Rockets (2-2) this Saturday at Heinz Field. Kickoff is set for noon. For ticket information, log on to PittsburghPanthers.com or call (800) 643-PITT.

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