Fitch running back commits to University of Pittsburgh

By Kevin Connelly

kconnelly@vindy.com

AUSTINTOWN

A pipeline to Western Pennsylvania became a lot stronger on Tuesday with the verbal commitment of Austintown Fitch’s Darrin Hall to the University of Pittsburgh.

The four-star running back announced his decision in front of a group of 20 family members and friends at Buffalo Wild Wings, where he donned a Pitt hat over that of Michigan State and Kentucky.

“It’s good to get it out of the way and now I can focus on becoming a great leader for my [Fitch] team,” said Hall, who’s beginning his senior year.

Hall said he was leaning toward Pitt last week and after a visit on Sunday, he ultimately decided the Panthers were the best choice for him.

As a junior, the tailback carried the ball 211 times for 1,293 yards and 11 touchdowns. He ran for 950 yards and 12 touchdowns as a sophomore.

“[Pitt’s getting] downhill running,” Hall said. “I can catch the ball, I’m good in space, I have great speed and I’m a big back, so I can bring everything they need.”

Hall held double-digit Division I offers, but Pitt’s proximity and academics played a big factor in the end.

“First it’s not far away,” Hall said. “It’s only an hour and 15 minutes away.

“Plus they have what I need on the field and off the field, education-wise. I want to go into the FBI and they have a FBI headquarters that you can walk to.”

He didn’t talk to the Pitt coaching staff about early playing time and said that wasn’t something he was worried about.

“I know they have some young backs, but I’m ready to work hard and earn my spot,” he said.

Hall’s parents, Camille and Darrin Sr., were seated next to him when he made his announcement, but said that was as close as they got to the decision making process.

“He made it on his own,” said Darrin Sr. “He made the decision and he chose to stay close to home and I was glad of that.

“I’m glad that played a factor in his decision and I love the choice.”

His mom was happy her son made his decision not solely on football.

“I’m very excited about it,” she said. “I’m more excited about his education, that’s first and football’s secondary, but overall I’m just very happy.

“Whatever he choose was good for me.”

Hall alluded to the fact that his parents can continue to come to his games, as a big plus for the Panthers.

“They’ve been watching me play all my life, so I really need them there for the support and just to cheer for me,” he said.

As for how many games Darrin Sr. and Camille plan to attend?

“All of the them,” they said simultaneously.