Get ready, Pittsburgh! The legendary ‘City Game’ is back after 86 years as Pitt hosts Duquesne. This isn’t just football; it’s a battle for local bragging rights and a huge opportunity for hometown heroes on the Dukes’ roster. Will Duquesne seize their moment against the Panthers, or will Pitt reclaim its dominance in this epic crosstown showdown?
The echoes of a storied rivalry are set to reverberate through Pittsburgh once more, as the highly anticipated ‘City Game’ returns after an 86-year hiatus. The 2025 college football season will kick off with a historic matchup, featuring the Pitt Panthers hosting the Duquesne Dukes in a contest steeped in local pride and renewed competition. This long-awaited reunion promises to deliver not just a game, but a rekindling of a crosstown football tradition.
For decades, the gridiron rivalry between the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University lay dormant, a relic of a bygone era. Now, with both teams eager to make an impact, the return of this fixture is more than just a scheduling anomaly; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of local football. Fans on both sides have long yearned for this unique clash, offering bragging rights that extend far beyond the final score, deep into the heart of Western Pennsylvania communities.
While the Pitt Panthers enter the season with their customary FBS stature, the stakes are arguably even higher for the Duquesne Dukes. Their roster is a proud collection of talented Western Pennsylvania natives, many of whom were overlooked by larger FBS programs like Pitt. For these players, facing their crosstown rivals represents a profound opportunity to showcase their abilities on a bigger stage and prove their mettle against the local powerhouse, transforming a regional contest into a deeply personal battle.
The dream of playing under the bright lights of Acrisure Stadium, once a childhood aspiration for many local athletes, now becomes a tangible reality for the Dukes. Antonio Epps, for instance, grew up watching the Panthers at this very venue, even considering following in the footsteps of family members like NFL receiver Tyler Boyd. This personal connection resonates with numerous Duquesne players, underscoring the emotional depth and local narrative woven into the fabric of this particular ‘City Game’ encounter.
Beyond the immediate excitement, this matchup also casts a spotlight on the evolving landscape of college football. For FCS schools like Duquesne, opportunities to compete against FBS programs are crucial, offering both significant financial benefits and invaluable exposure. However, with discussions around Power Four FBS conferences potentially moving to a nine-game conference schedule, such opportunities could become increasingly scarce, making each game of this nature profoundly important for the future of lower-division programs.
The financial windfall from playing an FBS opponent can be a lifeline for FCS athletic departments, funding various sports and facilities. Equally vital is the cultural exchange and national attention these games generate, inspiring young athletes and bolstering school spirit. The return of the Pitt vs. Duquesne ‘City Game’ serves as a timely reminder of the symbiotic relationship between different tiers of college football and the need to preserve these cross-divisional contests.
As the kickoff approaches, the anticipation in Pittsburgh is palpable. The return of the ‘City Game’ is more than just a football match; it’s a celebration of local athletics, community pride, and a long-dormant rivalry. Fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere, as two historical institutions clash in a contest that promises memorable moments and sets the tone for the 2025 college football season, solidifying its place as a must-watch event.
