The 2025 Backyard Brawl between the Pittsburgh Panthers and the West Virginia Mountaineers is shaping up to be an excellent game. Both teams have their share of strengths and weaknesses, but here’s how Pitt can leave Morgantown with a win. Read more How Pitt Could Walk Away from the Backyard Brawl with a Win.
Exploit WVU’s Offensive Issues
As we’ve all seen, the West Virginia offense has been sluggish out of the gate this season. In their recent 17-10 loss to Ohio, the Mountaineers totaled only 250 yards and had six three-and-outs. They also squandered three second-half turnovers, which saw Jahiem White and Jaden Bray suffer season-ending injuries.
The Mountaineers won against Robert Morris but also had an offensive struggle. Four of their five fumbles (four of which were recovered by the Colonials) occurred in the first half.
Pitt’s defense is renowned for their pass rush, and this may cause WVU’s offense some difficulty. The relentless pressure on the quarterback could lead to errors, and the Panthers may change a poor snap or fumble into a turnover that alters the game completely.
Control the Line of Scrimmage
The defensive line of Pitt has been a source of strength, leading in tackles for loss and in sacks. Defensive lineman Jimmy Scott had six sacks at one end position. By dominating the line of scrimmage, Pitt can prevent WVU from getting into an offensive rhythm. Going back to the Robert Morris game, it took the Mountaineers the entire first quarter to find a rhythm. If the Panthers shut it down early, the Mountaineers could be in for a long day.
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Take Advantage of Special Teams
In a game as tight as the Backyard Brawl series tends to be, special teams can be the difference-maker. For Pitt, solid kick coverage, good returns, and steady kicking are what can be the difference between a heartbreaking loss and a statement win.
Keep Offensive Balance
While Pitt’s defense is undoubtedly solid, their offense has been equally impressive. It will be crucial for Pitt to be balanced in their attack, as a heavy reliance on the passing game may play into the defensive strengths of WVU. An effective running game will keep the Mountaineers’ defense off-balance and open up opportunities in the passing game.
Eli Holstein has been impressive with his passing play so far this season, throwing four touchdowns in each of his first two games.
Rivalry Atmosphere
The Backyard Brawl is one that the Mountaineers mark on their calendar annually, and they do not want to see the Panthers come out on top.
Not only will the student section be packed and loud, but the entire stadium will be ready for the battle of a lifetime. Pitt will need to feed off the energy of the rivalry to fuel their intensity and focus. Remaining calm under pressure and feeding off the energy of the crowd can truly change the game.
Offensive coordinator Kade Bell told Holstein to feed off of the crowd and use it to his advantage.
“It’s going to be loud. It’s going to be hectic. We talk about the pure hatred in this rivalry, and he told us to embrace it. It’s going to be a lot of fun. Told us to feed off of it and drive us, get us amped up and motivated to go out there and dominate.”
Execution is Key
To leave the Milan Puskar Stadium with a win, the Pittsburgh Panthers must exploit WVU’s offensive weaknesses, control the line of scrimmage, capitalize on special teams, find offensive balance, and utilize the rivalry intensity to their advantage. If the Panthers can use each of these factors to their benefit, they could earn a win in this historic rivalry.
