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.
Missed this week's episode of the Pat Narduzzi Radio Show? Catch the full episode presented by Power of Bowser, featuring Coach Pat Narduzzi, offensive coordinator Kade Bell and defensive coordinator Cory Sanders as they preview Saturday’s season opener against Miami (Ohio).
Pitt Football Pledge Per Success
Back the Panthers. Celebrate every big play. Make an impact all season long.
Panther Club and Pitt Football are teaming up to give fans a new way to support Pitt Football throughout the 2026 season. With Pledge Per Success, you can pledge an amount per win, sack, field goal and/or touchdown and turn every game-day milestone into meaningful support for Pitt student-athletes.
KICKOFF AND RIB FESTIVAL
Roc’n on Rooney transforms into Rib Fest for Pitt’s home opener! Enjoy award-winning ribs, live music, festival food, games and more around Acrisure Stadium throughout the weekend.
Upgrade Your Game Day with REVELxp
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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.
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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!
