Posted by ESPN.com's Brian Bennett

Dave Wannstedt has done a terrific job of recruiting at Pitt, but the one spot where he hasn't been able to attract elite talent is at quarterback. Perhaps that is about to change.

The Panthers have received a verbal commitment from highly-regarded high school signalcaller Anthony Gonzalez of Bethlehem, Pa., the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Gonzalez was Pennsylvania's Class AAAA player of the year last season after running for 1,697 yards and throwing for 1,570 yards. He also had offers from Penn State, Florida State, Illinois, Missouri, Oregon, West Virginia and many others.

ESPN's Scouts Inc. ranks Gonzales as the 17th-best quarterback in the Class of 2010. Here's the analysis from scout Billy Tucker:

"He is a bit raw mechanically but is a big, strong kid with the potential to make most all the college throws down the road with refinement. He will surprise you with his underneath touch and accuracy as well. Very dangerous with the ball in hands and will bring a different element to Pitt's offense with his ability to make plays outside the pocket. Our No. 17-rated athlete can make defenders miss or simply run through initial contact with his large frame."

"It will be interesting to see how Pitt employs his skills and adjusts its scheme to Gonzalez's strengths. He's ultra-competitive, savvy and should make the transition to quarterback regardless. If not, he's one heck of an athlete to add to its roster."

It's interesting that Gonzalez doesn't seem to be a true pro-style pocket passer like the ones Wannstedt likes to employ. For that matter, neither was Kolby Gray, who committed in last year's class. Does this signal that Pitt is looking for some changes in its offense, or are the Panthers simply stockpiling good players and will figure out how to use them later?

It's never a good idea to get overly excited about a high school recruit. Pat Bostick, if you'll recall, was a very high-rated quarterback in high school but has had many ups and downs in college. He's looking at a possible redshirt season this year as a junior.

But this commitment shows that top-flight quarterbacks aren't afraid to come to Pitt and play for Wannstedt. And, to borrow an NFL term, maybe Gonzalez is the franchise quarterback he's been looking for.