The Backyard Brawl: A History of the Pitt-West Virginia College Football Rivalry

The Genesis of the Rivalry

The Pitt-West Virginia college football rivalry is one of the most intense and passionate in the nation. The two schools are located just 75 miles apart, and their fans have a long history of animosity toward each other. The rivalry began in 1895, when the two schools played their first game in Pittsburgh. Pitt won that game, 16-4, and the series has been closely contested ever since.

The Golden Age of the Rivalry

The rivalry reached its peak in the 1950s and 1960s, when both schools were national powers. During this time, the Backyard Brawl was routinely played in front of sellout crowds at Pitt Stadium and West Virginia's Mountaineer Field. Some of the most memorable games of the era included a 1954 Pitt victory that snapped West Virginia's 17-game winning streak and a 1967 West Virginia win that clinched the Mountaineers' first national championship.

The Rivalry in Recent Years

The rivalry has cooled somewhat in recent years, as both schools have struggled to maintain their national prominence. However, the Backyard Brawl remains one of the most important games on the schedule for both teams. The game is always played with great intensity, and the fans are always passionate about the outcome.

Why is it Called the 'Backyard Brawl'?

The Backyard Brawl got its name from the fact that the two schools are located so close to each other. The rivalry is often referred to as the "backyard brawl" because it is played in the backyard of both schools. The term "backyard brawl" also reflects the intense and physical nature of the rivalry.

Conclusion

The Pitt-West Virginia rivalry is one of the most storied in college football. The two schools have played each other for over 100 years, and the rivalry has been filled with memorable moments. The Backyard Brawl is a game that is played with great passion and intensity, and it is always a must-see for college football fans.