SB Nation Pittsburgh takes a look at key players -- and key absences -- on the Panthers sideline for tonight's primetime meeting with Miami:

The Panthers are looking to get healthy, with the potential return of Dom DeCicco and Andrew Taglianetti in a sorely depleted secondary. And Dan Mason, Pitt's starting middle linebacker, will start the game on the bench due to his involvement in the DUI accident last week with backup running back Jason Douglas.

Perhaps the most eyes will be on the Pitt running backs. Starter and preseason Heisman candidate Dion Lewis has struggled mightily so far through two games. Backup Ray Graham, who had a breakout game last week with 115 yards and two touchdowns, will certainly get carries. The question is how many. Wannstedt has said that both should get their fair share of playing time and even went as far to say both players are 'interchangeable' in his weekly press conference.

Read on for more on the shared history of Randy Shannon and Dave Wannstedt, and the national implications of tonight's game.