GAMEDAY: Football at West Virginia
9/11/2025 12:00:00 PM | Football
Only 75 miles separate Pitt and West Virginia, renewing a rivalry that ran uninterrupted from 1943 through 2011 before conference realignment brought a pause. Now on a home-and-home slate through 2025 and again from 2029–32, the series resumes Saturday with regional pride on the line. The Panthers, 2-0 for the second straight season, are looking for their sixth 3-0 start since 2000 after last week’s 45-17 win over Central Michigan.
The Panthers enter the Backyard Brawl among the ACC leaders on both sides of the ball. Pitt is second in the league in total defense (212.5 yards per game) and leads in rushing defense (38.5). Offensively, the Panthers rank second in scoring (53.0 points per game) and touchdowns (13). Quarterback Eli Holstein has been a catalyst, leading the conference in passing efficiency and touchdowns while becoming the first Pitt passer since 2003 to throw four or more touchdowns in each of the first two games of a season.
Playmakers around Holstein have also produced. Desmond Reid totaled 141 all-purpose yards against Central Michigan, highlighted by a 32-yard reception, and ranks fourth in the ACC in all-purpose yards. Kenny Johnson has been a factor as both a receiver and returner, leading the league in kickoff return yards. Defensively, Kyle Louis continues to set the tone with 11 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and two sacks through two games. Together, those efforts set the stage for a compelling renewal of one of college football’s fiercest rivalries.
Regional Watch Parties
The Pitt Alumni Association and Pitt Alumni Regional Networks invite alumni, friends and Panther fans everywhere to enjoy upcoming Game Watch parties.
