WVU Football has moved its 2027 matchup against Ohio University from September 18 to August 28. The Mountaineers are now set to play Week 0 next year.
Beyond the change itself, it also happens to line up perfectly with a gap in its greatest rival’s schedule. Read more: WVU’s latest schedule change aligns stars for rekindled rivalry.
Nothing is set in stone besides the date change for the Ohio game, but it feels like it is the next step in giving fans what they want; a shorter wait for the Backyard Brawl to return.
The change
WVU Vice President and Director of Athletics Wren Baker announced Monday that the Week 3 game between the Mountaineers and OU is being moved up to Week 0 of the 2027 season.
It is the second game of a three-game contract, with Ohio upsetting WVU, 17-10, in Week 2 of the 2025 season. They meet again in 2029. WVU leads the all-time series, 13-5, with history dating back to 1897.
That means WVU has an opening on its schedule for September 18, 2027. Ironically, another team is free at this moment, too.
Aligning the stars
Taking a look at fbschedules.com, the Pitt Panthers do not have an opponent set for that week. Pitt has games confirmed for August 28, September 11, and October 30.
As of now, WVU is not scheduled to play Pitt again until 2029. It is a money-maker for both schools, always selling out games and creating buzz around the programs. The Mountaineers and Panthers are under contract to play annually from 2029 through 2036.
It is a game which most fans of the schools and college football fans in general clamor for. After the long hiatus before the most recent contracted run of games, it only heightened the hatred.
This most recent move is sure to stir up speculation, and rightfully so.
This is not to say it is going to happen, but it does work out perfectly for both programs.
What’s next
Until then, prepare for the upcoming season by staying up to date with WV Sports Nation for more WVU Athletics coverage.
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