University of Pittsburgh Athletics
GAME CENTRAL: Football vs. Syracuse
9/14/2026 5:00:00 PM | Football
Pitt opens ACC play this Thursday night at Acrisure Stadium, hosting Syracuse in the Panthers' first conference matchup of the 2026 season. The Panthers and Orange will meet for the 82nd time, with Pitt holding a 45-33-3 advantage in the all-time series. Pitt has won 20 of the last 24 meetings with Syracuse, including 11 straight at home.
Pitt enters the conference opener 2-0 following victories over Miami (Ohio) and UCF. Quarterback Mason Heintschel has completed 70% of his passes for 665 yards, seven touchdowns and no interceptions through two games, while the Panthers' defense has allowed just 47 rushing yards through the first two games.
Thursday's Party on the North Shore matchup brings the Panthers back under the lights at Acrisure Stadium, with a full night of entertainment and surprises planned throughout the evening.
ESPN's SportsCenter On Campus
ESPN’s SportsCenter On Campus will broadcast live from outside Acrisure Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 17, beginning at 5 p.m. ET, ahead of Pitt’s ACC opener against Syracuse.
Hosted by anchor Matt Barrie who will host the half-hour broadcast from the mini turf football field outside Gate A, near the corner of North Shore Drive and Art Rooney Avenue on Pittsburgh’s North Shore.
Fans are encouraged to gather on the turf field prior to 5 p.m. and join the Pitt Band and spirit squads for the live broadcast before heading into Acrisure Stadium for Thursday night’s game.
THE COMMONHEART LIVE FROM ROC'N ON ROONEY
Get to Roc’n on Rooney early and catch Pittsburgh’s own The Commonheart performing live!
Known for their high-energy blend of soul, rock and blues, The Commonheart will help set the tone for Thursday night under the lights
Pitt Football Pledge Per Success
Back the Panthers. Celebrate every big play. Make an impact all season long.
Panther Club and Pitt Football are teaming up to give fans a new way to support Pitt Football throughout the 2026 season. With Pledge Per Success, you can pledge an amount per win, sack, field goal and/or touchdown and turn every game-day milestone into meaningful support for Pitt student-athletes.
50/50 Raffle
Happy Hour specials are featured at every home game for the Pitt 50/50 raffle. Maximize your chance to win by purchasing your 50/50 tickets before kickoff!
Purchase your 50/50 raffle tickets throughout the concourse on gameday. 50/50 tickets are available to purchase with credit only.
Panther Club Tailgate of the Game
Panther Club staff & Pitt Spirit Squad members will be prowling the parking lots 3 hours prior to kick-off to award the "Tailgate of the Game" presented by Pennsylvania Lottery. The winner will receive a PA Lottery & Pitt Swag Bag and get their picture on the videoboard!
