Pitt, West Virginia Renew Backyard Brawl; Set for Thursday Night Kickoff
Location and Date
The 105th Backyard Brawl between the Pitt Panthers and West Virginia Mountaineers will take place on Thursday, September 1, 2023, at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Background
The Backyard Brawl is one of the most intense rivalries in college football, dating back to 1895. The two schools are located just 70 miles apart and have a long history of competing against each other. The series is currently tied 61-61-3.
Recent History
The Panthers have won the last two meetings in the series, including a 23-20 victory in Morgantown last season. The Mountaineers lead the series 32-22 in Pittsburgh.
What's at Stake
The Backyard Brawl is always a highly anticipated game, but this year's contest will have even more at stake. Both teams are coming off of strong seasons and are looking to make a statement in 2023.
Pitt Panthers
The Panthers are coming off of a 9-4 season in 2022, including a victory over UCLA in the Sun Bowl. They return a number of key players from that team, including quarterback Kedon Slovis and running back Israel Abanikanda.
West Virginia Mountaineers
The Mountaineers are coming off of a 6-7 season in 2022, but they have a lot of potential in 2023. They return a number of key players from last year's team, including quarterback JT Daniels and wide receiver Bryce Ford-Wheaton.
Prediction
The Backyard Brawl is always a close game, and this year's contest should be no different. Both teams are evenly matched and have a lot to play for. Ultimately, I think the Panthers will win a close game at home.
Additional Information
The game will be televised on ESPN and will kick off at 7:00 PM ET.
Tickets for the game are on sale now.