Intra-city rivals Pitt, Duquesne battle for first time in 86 years

There are only two D-I college football teams that call the city of Pittsburgh home. And yet, Pitt and FCS competitor Duquesne haven't faced off in 86 years.

That changes Saturday afternoon when the Panthers host the Dukes in an intra-city clash in a series that hasn't been contested since 1939.

"They're right down the road," Pitt head coach Pat Narduzzi said. "... Why not take care of a school in-state, let them have an opportunity to play in their city, for their city? I think it's a great game."

The Panthers head into 2025 coming off a two-faced 2024 campaign. A 7-0 start lifted Pitt into the top 20 of the AP poll before an 0-6 finish left everyone with thoughts of what could have been.

Even through that poor finish, Pitt's offense improved considerably under first-year offensive coordinator Kade Bell. The Panthers jumped from 317.9 yards and 20.2 points per game in 2023 to 408.7 and 32.9, respectively, in 2024.

Eli Holstein also is back for another season after throwing for 2,225 yards with 17 touchdowns and seven interceptions), with 328 rushing yards and three touchdowns in his first season as the starter.

"He is the leader of our offense," Narduzzi said. "I'm happy with where Eli is. Can't wait to watch him play."

The Dukes are coming off an 8-3 season, the program's best since 2018, and a second consecutive Northeast Conference championship, which it shared with Central Connecticut State. A loss to the Blue Devils in its regular-season finale kept Duquesne from making a second straight appearance in the FCS Playoffs.

Head coach Jerry Schmitt, entering his 21st season, will have to replace longtime quarterback Darius Perrantes (6,821 career passing yards, 73 passing TDs) this season.

As a Pittsburgh native, Schmitt is excited for his first opportunity to coach in Acrisure Stadium, where he's attended countless Pitt, Steelers, and state championship games.

"It's great to play in our hometown," Schmitt said. "... It's an interesting opportunity, unique and special for me to be able to walk on that field and coach a football game.

--Field Level Media