Flacco excited about his new role

There was no press conference or grand announcement, but on Tuesday, redshirt freshman Joe… There was no press conference or grand announcement, but on Tuesday, redshirt freshman Joe Flacco silently moved into the back-up quarterback role behind starter Tyler Palko.

Luke Getsy, who was originally named back-up quarterback, officially announced his intention to leave the Panther football team yesterday.

Flacco is excited about his new opportunity, which leaves him just one snap away from playing in his first collegiate football game.

“You are always excited when you get this type of opportunity,” Flacco said. “The news is good news. I am just going to make the best out of it, and if my opportunity comes I am going to try and make the best of it.”

Flacco, who hails from Audubon, N.J., came to Pitt under the radar behind the anticipation of the Palko-Getsy competition. Despite the apparent depth at the position, Flacco chose the Panthers because of their improving program.

“I am ready for competition whenever but the main thing that excited me was that they are an up and coming team,” Flacco said. “They are getting a lot better each year.”

At Audubon High School, Flacco finished his career with over 5,000 passing yards including a 2,000-yard season his senior year. He was a three-year starter at quarterback and was ranked the 33rd best prospect in New Jersey by SuperPrep. Last year, when Flacco was the prep-team quarterback, the Panther coaching staff named him Offensive Prep Player of the Year.

If Flacco does have the opportunity to see playing time this season, he will be throwing to many receivers with as little game experience as himself. Flacco insists that the young receivers, like himself, are ready to go.

“The injuries that we have suffered have allowed the younger receivers to get a chance to show what they can do,” Flacco said. “We are just trying to get them ready, and the injuries have been a chance to build depth and prepare them mentally.”

Now a position that was once considered flooded with talent has become exposed with inexperience, adding another question mark to an already shaky team. But Flacco insists the team is ready to play.

“We’re always ready,” Flacco said. “We are young, but these kids know how to play. It’s time for football to just take over.”

Flacco and the Panthers open the season Monday on the road against South Florida at Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium. Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m.