University of Pittsburgh Athletics
GAME CENTRAL: Football vs. Miami (OH)
9/1/2026 11:00:00 AM | Football
Pitt opens its 137th season of football against Miami (Ohio) this Saturday at Acrisure Stadium. The Panthers and RedHawks will meet for the third time, while Pitt owns a 35-6 all-time record against members of the Mid-American Conference. The 2026 campaign marks Pat Narduzzi's 12th season as Pitt's head coach. Since his arrival in 2015, Narduzzi has directed the Panthers to 52 ACC victories, the third-highest total in the conference during that span.
Pitt enters the 2026 season with key contributors returning on both sides of the ball. Quarterback Mason Heintschel and running back Ja'Kyrian Turner return after leading the Panthers in passing and rushing, respectively, as true freshmen in 2025. Turner closed the season as one of the ACC's most productive rushers, while Pitt's defense returns linebacker Braylan Lovelace after holding opponents to just 2.7 yards per carry last season. Lovelace, an Honorable Mention All-ACC selection in 2025, anchors a veteran defensive unit. Heintschel, Ryan Baer, Lovelace and Cruce Brookins will serve as Pitt's team captains in 2026, with Heintschel believed to be the program's first true sophomore captain in the modern era.
Fans can kick off the 2026 season with Pittsburgh Day, as the North Shore transforms into a celebration of Pitt and Pittsburgh pride. The home opener will feature rally towel giveaways, Pittsburgh Mascot Race, the 36th Annual Rib Fest and more throughout the day.
Tune in Wednesday at 6 p.m. for the season premiere of the Pat Narduzzi Radio Show, presented by Power of Bowser.
Coach Narduzzi and former Pitt quarterback Pat Bostick will preview Saturday’s season opener against Miami (Ohio), discuss the Panthers’ preparation for the 2026 season and provide an inside look at Pitt Football.
The show will feature special guests, including offensive coordinator Kade Bell and defensive coordinator Cory Sanders. Listen live from Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh–Oakland on the Pitt Panthers Radio Network, with Wednesday’s show airing on NewsRadio KDKA.
Upgrade Your Game Day with REVELxp
Game days are better when they start with a tailgate. With full-service tailgates from REVELxp, everything is set up and ready when you arrive, so you can jump straight into game day mode.
Bring your friends, host your crew, and enjoy a comfortable space to eat, connect, and get ready to cheer on the Panthers. Spaces are limited for each home game, so be sure to reserve your tailgate in advance.
For more information, contact REVELxp at (412) 525-4125 or pitt@revelxp.com.
Elevate Your Game Day with Premium Experiences
Make your Panthers gameday even more memorable with exclusive experiences that put you closer to the action. Enjoy on-field access, videoboard moments, behind-the-scenes opportunities and more.
50/50 Raffle
Purchase your 50/50 raffle tickets throughout the concourse on gameday. 50/50 tickets are available to purchase with credit only.
Panther Club Tailgate of the Game
Panther Club staff & Pitt Spirit Squad members will be prowling the parking lots 3 hours prior to kick-off to award the "Tailgate of the Game" presented by Pennsylvania Lottery. The winner will receive a PA Lottery & Pitt Swag Bag and get their picture on the videoboard!
