Pitt, West Virginia Extend Backyard Brawl Rivalry Through 2036

The University of Pittsburgh and West Virginia University have agreed to extend their historic Backyard Brawl football rivalry through 2036, adding four more games from 2033-36 to an existing contract that covers 2029-32. After a three-year break following the 2025 game, the rivalry will resume annually in September with alternating home games, continuing one of college football's oldest and most intense rivalries. The Backyard Brawl began in 1895 and was played annually from 1943 to 2011 before a hiatus caused by conference changes, with Pitt leading the all-time series 63-41-3. Both schools and coaches have expressed strong enthusiasm about the extension, highlighting the rivalry's significance in history, passion, and regional pride. West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez called it one of the greatest rivalries in sports, noting the intensity and fanbase passion. Pitt's athletic director Allen Greene and head coach Pat Narduzzi emphasized the importance of preserving the tradition and allowing future generations of players and fans to continue experiencing the rivalry.