University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Narduzzi, Panthers Locked in for Notre Dame Showdown
11/10/2025 4:22:00 PM | Football
PITTSBURGH — With an energized crowd, ESPN's College GameDay and Aaron Donald's jersey retirement set to headline Saturday's matchup, head coach Pat Narduzzi made it clear Monday that his team's focus is squarely on football.
"You could play this game at 7 a.m. over at the fieldhouse or in the parking lot," Narduzzi said. "Doesn't matter what time, doesn't matter who we're playing against. Our guys are coming to play, period."
The CFP No. 24 Panthers (7–2, 5–1 ACC) host CFP No. 10 Notre Dame (8–2) at noon Saturday at Acrisure Stadium in a nationally televised game on ABC. Coming off a bye, Narduzzi said Pitt used the open week to recover and self-scout before turning full attention to the Fighting Irish.
"We had a great week off," he said. "Had two good practices, got a little healthier, and really took time to evaluate who we are in all three phases."
Calling Notre Dame "by far the most athletic, the best team across the board," Narduzzi praised the Irish's physicality and balance led by quarterback CJ Carr and running backs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price. "They've got playmakers everywhere, and they're aggressive in all three phases," he said.
While College GameDay's return adds excitement, Narduzzi stressed that his team won't be distracted. "It is great for the city of Pittsburgh and the University," he said. "But once that kickoff starts, it's just a game. Our guys have to be locked in and focused one play at a time."
True freshman quarterback Mason Heintschel will make his sixth career start after leading Pitt to five straight wins. Narduzzi expressed full confidence in his poise. "We have a lot of faith in him," he said. "He doesn't need to go out there and try to be the guy—just play his game."
As the Panthers prepare for their first home meeting with Notre Dame since 2020, Narduzzi summed up the challenge simply: "They're talented, they're physical, they're fast. But our guys will play hard, like they always do. That's who we are, and we're ready to go compete."
