The ongoing rivalry between the University of Pittsburgh football team and West Virginia University is intensifying, particularly with the upcoming final matchup until 2029 scheduled for September 13 in Morgantown. This historic feud has been further highlighted by recent statements from former West Virginia defensive back Beanie Bishop, currently a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Following a practice session, Bishop made headlines by publicly displaying his animosity toward Pitt by wiping his feet on the Pitt logo, a gesture shared on social media. His remarks during a Steelers’ Organized Team Activities (OTAs) session reflected the deep-seated rivalry, as he expressed strong feelings of disdain towards Pitt players and coaches present during practice. “It’s hatred. You don’t have no respect for those guys,” Bishop stated, emphasizing his desire for the rivalry game to be held during a designated rivalry week rather than earlier in the season.
Pitt’s head coach, Pat Narduzzi, also voiced his support for reviving the rivalry, calling for efforts to schedule the game more consistently. Narduzzi believes that the Backyard Brawl is among the top rivalries in college football, citing the intense emotions and rival sentiments that characterize the competition. He expressed hope that the game could return to the schedule, urging for adjustments to be made to avoid a lengthy hiatus between matchups.
The rivalry has seen the home team victorious in recent years, with Pitt winning the last encounter in 2024, a tightly contested game that finished 38-34. As both sides prepare for the next clash, anticipation builds among fans and players alike, underscoring the vibrant spirit that defines college football rivalries.
This rivalry not only provokes passionate support from fans but also encapsulates the essence of college sports, where history, competition, and regional pride intertwine. The excitement leading up to the Backyard Brawl serves as a reminder of the traditions that make college football a beloved experience for many.