Ever wonder what makes a uniform truly iconic? The Pitt Panthers just dropped their look for the upcoming Duquesne game, and it’s a nod to tradition with a modern edge! Get ready for the ‘City Game’ showdown. What are your thoughts on their classic gold and blue combination?
Anticipation is building as the Pitt Panthers prepare to launch their 2025 college football season, and the team has officially unveiled the striking uniform combination they will don for their much-anticipated season opener against the Duquesne Dukes. This reveal sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting return to the gridiron, stirring fan excitement for the classic matchup.
The chosen attire for the Panthers vs Dukes clash features a timeless aesthetic: a traditional golden helmet, elegantly accented with a blue Cathedral stripe. Complementing this, the team will sport bold blue jerseys emblazoned with gold numbers, paired with gold pants that also carry the distinct blue Cathedral stripe. This particular ensemble, a classic example of NCAA uniforms, is widely regarded as one of college football’s cleanest and most iconic combinations, showcasing a blend of heritage and powerful visual identity.
The kickoff for this intrastate rivalry is slated for Saturday at 12 p.m. at Acrisure Stadium. This marks a significant moment, as it’s the first time these cross-town programs have met on the football field since 1939, reigniting what many consider the unofficial “City Game.” Beyond the uniforms, the narrative of the game itself adds another layer of intrigue, highlighting a fascinating coaching duel.
Adding to the storyline, the sidelines will feature a friendly yet competitive battle between two long-time friends: Pitt’s head coach, Pat Narduzzi, and Duquesne’s veteran coach, Jerry Schmitt. Their familiarity with each other’s coaching philosophies and the local football landscape promises an intense strategic contest, elevating the stakes beyond just a simple season opener.
The Duquesne Dukes enter this contest following an impressive 8-3 (5-1 NEC) 2024 season, where they narrowly missed a postseason berth. Despite losing key contributors, including their starting quarterback Darius Perrantes, Coach Narduzzi is not underestimating the challenge posed by the Dukes, recognizing their resilience and competitive spirit as a formidable opponent.
During his weekly press conference, Pat Narduzzi expressed his enthusiasm for the game, stating, “Again, excited about this football game. Jerry Schmitt, heck of a football coach. Obviously going on his 21st year. I think I’ve been here a long time. 21 seasons anywhere in the country is unbelievable. Duquesne is a good football team, well-coached. A lot of Pittsburgh guys. Those guys will come into Acrisure Stadium cranked up and play their best game of the year without a doubt. We expect that.” His words underscore the mutual respect and anticipated intensity of the matchup at Acrisure Stadium.
Fans unable to attend in person can catch all the action through various broadcast channels. The television broadcast team includes Clay Matvick on play-by-play, former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel providing color commentary, and Marilyn Panye reporting from the sidelines. On the radio, the legendary Bill Hillgrove will lead the call on 93.7 The Fan & Panthers Radio Network, joined by former Pitt Panthers Pat Bostick (color) and Dorin Dickerson (sideline reporter), ensuring comprehensive coverage of the Pitt football opener.
