Pitt Football Notebook: Cornerback is ready to lay

[bullwark]

Josh Lay has received a lot of praise from the coaching staff for his performance in training camp, and for good reason.

Lay, a senior cornerback, has been one of the stars in practice almost every day and he has been a part of the reason the Panthers' passing offense has struggled.

Last year at this time, Lay was barely a member of the team as he was trying to finish his summer school work just to get eligible. This year, he has come to camp focused and ready to play.

The difference -- he now has a sense of urgency.

"I'm a senior, man, that's all it takes," Lay said.

"This is my last time through. There isn't another chance for me to get to where I want to go. Knowing that, I take the field every day with the idea that it could be my last game or practice or whatever.

"It isn't just me, though. We have a great secondary and there aren't many holes anywhere. That makes all of our jobs easier."

Heralded combo

Quarterback Tyler Palko and receiver Greg Lee were named to the watch list for the Walt Camp Award for player of the year. Also, Palko was named to the watch list for the Davey O'Brien Award for the top quarterback and Lee was named to the watch list for the Biletnikoff Award for the top receiver.

Quick outs

Coach Dave Wannstedt gave the Panthers off yesterday morning, canceling a scheduled practice, to allow the players to get some rest. The day off came on the heels of a physical scrimmage. The team will resume today as there are two practices scheduled. Yesterday was also the day that players moved out of Sutherland Hall and into dorms or apartments. ... The Panthers will hold their final scrimmage of training camp Tuesday. They have a walk through Thursday at Heinz Field as part of FanFest. Camp breaks Saturday.