No. 22 Pitt returns home on Saturday to host No. 9 Notre Dame in the 74th meeting between the longtime rivals, a matchup carrying major College Football Playoff implications and the spotlight of ESPN’s College GameDay on the North Shore.
The Panthers (7-2) enter on a five-game winning streak, revived behind true freshman quarterback Mason Heintschel, who has thrown for 1,547 yards and 12 touchdowns in his first six appearances. Pitt’s defense has fueled the surge as well, producing steady pressure and takeaways. The unit held Stanford to minus-10 rushing yards in a 35-20 road win in Week 10, led by linebacker Kyle Louis’ 11 tackles and an interception.
Notre Dame (7-2) has won seven straight by an average of nearly four touchdowns, reasserting itself in the playoff race. First-year starter C.J. Carr has settled into form with 19 touchdown passes and no interceptions over his past two games, while the Irish continue to lean on a punishing run game led by Jeremiyah Love.
Both teams downplayed talk of a “trap game.” Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi joked he would endure a one-sided loss if it guaranteed winning the final two games. While Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman was brushed off suggestions the Irish might overlook the surging Panthers.
Saturday will also feature the halftime retirement of Aaron Donald’s No. 97, adding to a high-profile stage for a rivalry that has seen 10 of the past 14 meetings decided by single digits.
Kickoff between the Irish and Panthers is set for Noon on ABC.
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