West Virginia stuns Pitt with last-minute comeback in Backyard Brawl

On September 13, 2025, the West Virginia Mountaineers faced off against the Pittsburgh Panthers in Morgantown, a rivalry well-known as the Backyard Brawl. West Virginia managed a dramatic last-minute comeback, with Tye Edwards rushing for three touchdowns including a critical score in overtime that propelled the Mountaineers to a 31-24 victory. The game saw various lead changes and a spirited contest that defined the long-standing rivalry between the two teams. With this win, West Virginia improved to 2-1 in the current season, while Pittsburgh also held a 2-1 record but suffered their fourth successive loss in Morgantown. West Virginia was reeling from a poor performance in their previous game against Ohio, and Coach Rich Rodriguez was determined to change momentum during this crucial matchup. The game reached a thrilling finish, as the Mountaineers, trailing late in the fourth quarter, scored 10 points within the last five minutes to tie the game and push it into overtime. Quarterback Marchiol executed an effective scoring drive in the extra period, ultimately leading to Edwards’ decisive touchdown. The Panthers had initially led the game, thanks in part to a notable performance by their quarterback Eli Holstein, who completed multiple passes for good yardage. However, after taking a 24-14 lead late in the fourth quarter, Pitt faltered in crucial moments. The Panthers' efforts to regain control unraveled when they were unable to capitalize on their offensive opportunities after West Virginia's overtime score. The rivalry will still be a point of focus as the teams are set to meet again in 2029 after a break following their current matchup. The extension of this rivalry ensures that fans of both universities will have the opportunity to continue experiencing one of college football’s most enduring traditions, a sentiment echoed by both athletic directors involved. The announcement of this extension highlights the importance of college sports in fostering community pride and continuity between generations of fans.