Steve Mellon, Post-Gazette Quarterback Kevan Smith tries to recover a fumble in the Blue-Gold scrimmage at Heinz Field. Click photo for larger image. Related article Notebook: Mustakas, defensive line improving

Pitt's defense was ahead the offense for most of the spring, so it came as no surprise that the defense dominated yesterday's Blue-Gold spring game at Heinz Field.

The final score was Blue (defense) 62, Gold (offense, actually in white jerseys) 48, but it was irrelevant because the scoring system was so complex that members of the athletic department were scrambling in the press box to try and keep up.

What tells the story are the rushing totals -- the offense ran 47 times for only 148 yards (3.1 yards per carry) -- and the negative plays. The defense forced six turnovers (three interceptions and three fumble recoveries), had six sacks and was credited with 17 tackles for loss.

The offense managed only two touchdowns and two field goals, one that was set up by a controversial pass interference call on cornerback Aaron Berry. The defense scored a touchdown on a 53-yard interception return by sophomore safety Elijah Fields.

Pitt coach Dave Wannstedt said afterwards that he has been pleased with the progress of the defense this spring, and in particular the defensive line because that is an area he has made a priority. He said the defensive line's dominance was a great sign and it doesn't necessarily mean Pitt's offensive line played poorly.

"I think offensive line things usually work themselves out," Wannstedt said. "In my experience, if you're talking about the offensive line at this point, you're in trouble. I'd rather throw the accolades at the defensive line all the time. My being an ex-offensive lineman, I know they're usually smart guys and they find a way to survive and get it done.

Steve Mellon, Post-Gazette Running back LaRod Stephens-Howling breaks through a hole yesterday in teh Blue-Gold game at Heinz Field. Click photo for larger image.

"But, if the defensive line isn't making plays, you've got no chance as a football team, so it is good to see."

Another positive sign this spring has been the emergence of defensive players who will be counted on to play key roles. Most notably, middle linebacker Scott McKillop, who is taking over for H.B. Blades, and Berry, who is stepping into Darrelle Revis' old spot.

McKillop had 10 tackles and Berry had an interception. Wannstedt said both have all but wrapped up starting spots.

"We're not setting any lineups yet, but Aaron Berry is very good and I feel very comfortable with him running with that first group that we're going to be fine at that corner spot," he said. "He is going to be a good one. And Scott McKillop did a good job today ... he was very active and he did a nice job of getting everyone lined up."

Wannstedt said the two outside linebacker spots are still open and won't be filled until deep into summer camp. A player who put in a strong bid for at least one of the jobs is sophomore Dorin Dickerson, who had an interception and made a number of plays. Also Shane Murray had an excellent spring and will be in the mix.

Another who emerged this spring, much to the delight of the coaching staff, is Fields, who missed the first six practices of the spring for disciplinary reasons. He is one of the best athletes on the team, but struggled last season because he was slow to pick up the defense.

	Steve Mellon, Post-Gazette Defensive lineman Craig Bokor, top, and linebacker Greg Webster drop running back Shane Brooks. Click photo for larger image.

He has used the past three weeks to not only catch up but put himself in a good position for playing time in the fall. Along with the interception, he made several nice tackles yesterday.

"Elijah shows up and just makes plays," Wannstedt said. "He made one tackle at the line of scrimmage and I don't know how he got there. He's got skill. We knew that when we recruited him. The biggest thing he needs is that day-to-day consistency, whether it be in football, in the class room or the weight room. The quicker he jumps on board and figures that out, well, the sky is the limit there."

Fields said the game has slowed down for him because he is more comfortable in what he is doing. But he knows he has a lot of work to do.

"There is such a big transition from high school to college and the defense we are running is way different than high school," Fields said. "There is so much stuff to learn and this year I'm finally learning how to play. I had to go through a lot and it wasn't that easy for me, but I'm all right now."