The ‘Backyard Brawl’ is more than just a game; it’s a deeply rooted college sports rivalry. It ignites passionate emotions between the University of Pittsburgh Panthers and the West Virginia University Mountaineers. These two institutions are separated by a mere 75 miles along Interstate 79.
For over a century, they have battled fiercely for bragging rights, top recruits, and regional supremacy. The intense animosity between their fan bases ensures that every encounter is a high-stakes event. This makes the Pittsburgh vs. West Virginia clash one of the most anticipated in all of college athletics.
The Genesis of a Grudge Match
The storied football series between Pitt and WVU first kicked off in 1895. This makes it the 14th oldest rivalry in the entire United States. The inaugural game took place in Wheeling, West Virginia, where the Mountaineers claimed an 8-0 victory.
A truly historic moment arrived in 1921 when the Backyard Brawl became the very first college football game ever broadcast on the radio. Harold W. Arlin called the action for a Pitt win on KDKA. This early innovation further cemented the Pittsburgh vs. West Virginia rivalry’s place in sports history.
Clash of Titans: Unforgettable Backyard Brawl Moments
Over its long history, the Pittsburgh vs. West Virginia rivalry has delivered countless memorable moments and heartbreaking upsets. In 1965, West Virginia secured a high-scoring 63-48 win against Pitt, thrilling fans with its offensive firepower.
Just five years later, in 1970, Pitt mounted an incredible comeback. They overcame a daunting 35-8 halftime deficit to stun WVU. This loss reportedly infuriated Mountaineer fans and even led to confrontations with then-rookie coach Bobby Bowden.
The 1976 game saw Heisman Trophy winner Tony Dorsett lead Pitt to victory. He rushed for 199 yards and three touchdowns, though he was ejected late in the game after a brawl. This significant win contributed to Pitt’s glorious 1976 National Championship season.
Perhaps the most iconic upset occurred in 2007. A 4-7 Pitt team, massive 28-point underdogs, shocked No. 2 West Virginia with a 13-9 victory. This defeat famously cost WVU a spot in the BCS National Championship Game. It solidified its place as one of the most dramatic moments in the Backyard Brawl’s history.
A Hiatus and a Triumphant Return
For decades, the Pittsburgh vs. West Virginia football rivalry was an annual tradition. It was played without interruption from 1943 to 2011. However, conference realignments brought about an unfortunate hiatus.
When Pitt departed the Big East for the ACC and West Virginia joined the Big 12, the series was paused for 11 long years after the 2011 season. Fans eagerly awaited its return.
Their patience was rewarded when the rivalry resumed in 2022. A four-game series is scheduled to run until 2025. This resurgence was met with immense enthusiasm from both fan bases.
The good news doesn’t stop there, as both universities have recently agreed to extend the Backyard Brawl football series even further. Four more games have been added from 2033-2036. This ensures that this cherished rivalry will continue annually from 2029 through 2036, keeping the tradition alive and well.
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Beyond the Gridiron: A Personal Battle
While football often takes center stage, the Backyard Brawl is much more expansive. It encompasses basketball and various other athletic competitions between the two schools. The rivalry is frequently described as ‘personal’ and even ‘extremely personal.’
This is a testament to the deep-seated feelings and competitive spirit shared by players, alumni, and fans alike. This intense bitterness only heightens the rivalry’s intensity. It makes it truly one of the greatest and most compelling rivalries in all of sports. The ongoing battles between Pittsburgh vs. West Virginia demonstrate the true spirit of collegiate competition.
The Backyard Brawl stands as a powerful testament to collegiate sports rivalries. Its rich history, memorable games, and fervent fan bases make it a truly unique spectacle. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to the tradition, the intensity of Pitt vs. WVU is undeniable.
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