Paul Chryst calls a time out in Pittsburgh's game against Virginia in this Sept. 28, 2013, file photo.PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh has fired athletic director Steve Pederson after Paul Chryst's abrupt departure for Wisconsin left the Panthers searching for their fourth football coach in four years.
Randy Juhl, vice chancellor for research conduct and compliance, will serve as Pitt's acting athletic director. Offensive coordinator Joe Rudolph will serve as interim coach for the Panthers as they prepare for the Armed Forces Bowl on Jan. 2 against Houston. Wednesday's announcements came as Chryst was being introduced as Wisconsin's coach following three seasons at Pitt.
Chancellor Patrick Gallagher thanked Pederson for his service to the university, which included guiding Pittsburgh from the crumbling Big East to the ACC. Pederson struggled to find stability in the football program, however, after Dave Wannstedt was forced out at the end of the 2010 season.