The gridiron at Heinz Field is set to ignite as the #21/RV Pitt Panthers (2-0, 1-0 ACC) prepare to clash with the #24/RV Louisville Cardinals (1-1, 0-1 ACC) on September 26, 2020. This highly anticipated matchup, kicking off at noon ET, marks a significant moment in the college football season, pitting two ranked teams against each other in an ACC battle. The game will be nationally broadcast on the ACC Network, promising thrilling action for fans nationwide.
Coming off a solid 21-10 victory over Syracuse, the Pitt Panthers are riding high, seeking to solidify their early season success. Meanwhile, the Louisville Cardinals are looking to rebound after a 47-34 defeat at the hands of Miami. This contest is more than just a game; it’s a chance for Pitt to achieve their first 3-0 start since 2014 and for Louisville to prove their mettle against a ranked opponent.
This game also represents only the second ACC meeting between these two programs. Their initial conference encounter in 2015 at Heinz Field saw Pitt emerge victorious with a 45-34 scoreline. Adding to the intrigue, this 2020 game was a later addition to the schedule, a result of the conference’s revamped format in July. Historically, Pitt holds a 9-8 advantage in the overall series against Louisville, setting the stage for a potentially close and competitive game.
A 3-0 start holds significant historical weight for the Panthers. Looking back to the seasons of 2000, 2009, and 2014, each time Pitt launched with a 3-0 record, it served as a powerful springboard to a bowl game invitation. This year’s team is eager to replicate that success, understanding the momentum a strong early season can provide.
Under the leadership of Coach Pat Narduzzi since 2015, Pitt has accumulated an impressive 25 wins in ACC play. This achievement places them third in the conference during this period, surpassed only by the dominant Clemson Tigers (39) and the Miami Hurricanes (26). Narduzzi’s consistent performance in the ACC underscores Pitt’s growing competitiveness within the conference.
In a standout performance during his 2020 debut against Syracuse, defensive end Rashad Weaver made a statement. He racked up two sacks, three tackles for loss, and seven total tackles, earning him the prestigious Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week honors. This recognition is particularly significant as Weaver’s return to the field comes after missing the entire 2019 season due to injury, highlighting his resilience and impact.
Adding to Pitt’s defensive prowess, safety Paris Ford has been a force in the secondary. Known for his run-stopping abilities, Ford has already snagged two interceptions early in the season. His performance places him tied for first nationally in total interceptions and third in interceptions per game, averaging 1.0 per game. Ford’s ball-hawking skills are a crucial asset to the Panthers’ defense.
Pitt’s defense has emerged as one of the nation’s stingiest units. They currently hold top 10 national rankings in multiple defensive categories, including first in rushing defense (allowing a mere 26.0 yards per game), third in total defense (154.0 yards per game), fourth in pass defense (128.0 yards per game), and sixth in scoring defense (allowing just 5.0 points per game). This dominant defensive performance is a key factor in Pitt’s early season success and will be crucial against Louisville.
Series History at a Glance
- Series Began: 1976
- Overall Series: Pitt leads 9-8
- At Pittsburgh: Pitt leads 6-5
- At Louisville: Series tied 3-3
- Neutral Sites: No games played
- ACC Series: Pitt leads 1-0
- Big East Series: Series tied 4-4
- Current Streak: Pitt has won 1
- Last ACC Meeting: Nov. 21, 2015 (Pitt 45, Louisville 34)
- Last Big East Meeting: Oct. 13, 2012 (Louisville 45, Pitt 35)
- Longest Pitt Win Streak: 4 games (twice: 1976-83; 2008-11)
- Longest Louisville Win Streak: 7 games (1990-2007)
- Largest Pitt Victory Margin: 49 points (63-14, 1982)
- Largest Louisville Victory Margin: 24 points (48-24, 2006)
Broadcast Information
- Television: ACC Network
- Commentary Team: Wes Durham (play-by-play), Roddy Jones (analyst), Kelsey Riggs (reporter)
- Pitt Radio: 93.7 The Fan & Pitt Panthers Radio Network
- Commentary Team: Bill Hillgrove (play-by-play), Pat Bostick (analyst), Larry Richert (reporter)
- SiriusXM Satellite Radio: Sirius 135, XM 194, Internet 956
- WPTS Radio (Pitt Student Station): 92.1 FM
- Online Audio: 937thefan.radio.com
The ACC Network is widely accessible through various video providers, including Altice, AT&T, Charter/Spectrum, Cox Cable, DIRECTV, DISH, Google Fiber, Hulu Live TV, Optimum, Sling, Verizon Fios, Vidgo, and YouTube TV. Furthermore, all ACCN games are available for streaming on the ESPN App for authenticated cable subscribers. Fans can find more information about accessing the ACC Network at GetACCN.com.
About the ACC Network
Launched on August 22, 2019, the ACC Network, owned and operated by ESPN in partnership with the Atlantic Coast Conference, is a 24/7 national network dedicated to ACC sports. Annually, it broadcasts approximately 450 live events, including 40 regular-season football games, 150 men’s and women’s basketball games, and 200 additional regular-season and tournament competitions across the conference’s 27 sponsored sports. Complementing the live games is a range of news, information shows, and original programming. In its inaugural year, the ACC Network’s TV and digital platforms showcased over 1,000 ACC events. ESPN’s long-standing relationship with the ACC dates back to 1979 and grants them exclusive rights to all conference-controlled games across all sports and championships.
Get ready for a thrilling college football showdown as the Pitt Panthers and Louisville Cardinals battle it out in a top 25 matchup. For fans eager to showcase their team spirit, be sure to check out the latest Pitt Panthers Football Uniforms and gear to support your team in style! This game promises to be a key moment in the ACC season, don’t miss the action.
