During his time at Christian Brothers Academy, SirVocea Dennis was one of the best players/quarterbacks in Section 3. Dennis, alongside running back Stevie Scott, it was a backfield to remember.

But the way his final season in CNY played out, a torn-Achilles tendon four games into his senior year, put serious doubt in his college football future. Dennis was forced to do a year of prep school and was committed to the Air Force Academy.

It wasn’t until Pitt took notice of his skills that he turned his sights on the Panthers, and moved to the defensive side of the ball.

“I didn’t think I would be playing at this level,” SirVocea told the media during a conference call this week. “Just to be playing I’m excited, (and) playing the hometown team, I’m elated.”

Saturday he and the 25th ranked Pitt Panthers host Syracuse. In more ways than one it’s a big game, but Dennis isn’t trying to apply any added pressure.

“I’m excited, but not just because it’s Syracuse, but because it’s the next game. That’s how I approach every game and that’s how I plan to approach this one as well,” Dennis said.

The Syracuse-native obviously grew up a fan of the Orange. He credits his mother for engraining that fandom in him.

Which poses a big question… why isn’t he wearing Orange this Saturday?

Well, he wasn’t offered a scholarship.

With a smile on his face, he told the media that the fact SU didn’t offer him out of CBA doesn’t bother him. He’ll play this Saturday just like he would against any other opponent.

And it just so happens SirVocea has some insights on this week’s opponent. Not only because he’s from the Salt City, but because he’s a former quarterback.

He can relate to Tommy DeVito’s style of play and use that at linebacker.

“Those type of quarterbacks always try and make a play, but there is an edge to them, where you can get under their skin,” SirVocea added. “If the line is not blocking too good, or if they have to escape every 2-3 times a drive, they get tired of it. So, I know how to get under their skin a little bit.”

Syracuse and Pitt kickoff at Heinz Field Saturday at Noon, you can watch the game on the ACC Network.