Pat McAfee Champions the Backyard Brawl as College Football's Best Rivalry Name
Pat McAfee has weighed in on college football's best rivalry name, unequivocally declaring the Backyard Brawl between Pittsburgh and West Virginia as the champion. He acknowledges other prominent rivalries like the Third Saturday in October, the Red River Rivalry, the Holy War, and the Egg Bowl, but asserts that the Backyard Brawl stands above them all due to its intense passion and local connection.
The Storied History of the Backyard Brawl
The Backyard Brawl is one of the oldest and most heated rivalries in college football. The first game was played in 1895, marking the beginning of a long and contentious history between Pittsburgh and West Virginia. A significant factor in the rivalry's intensity is the close proximity of the two schools, separated by a mere 75 miles.
Notably, the Backyard Brawl holds the distinction of being the first college football game ever broadcast on the radio, back in 1921. This historical event further solidified its place in college football lore.
Series Domination and Notable Locations
Pittsburgh leads the all-time series with a record of 63-41-3. The Panthers enjoyed a dominant stretch, reeling off 15 consecutive wins in the series between 1929 and 1946. The games have been played in various locations throughout the years, including Forbes Field, the former home of baseball's Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Origin and Essence of the Name
The exact origin of the Backyard Brawl moniker remains somewhat unclear. However, the close proximity of the two schools, separated by state lines, undoubtedly plays a crucial role in its appropriateness. Over the years, a tremendous number of talented players and coaches have participated in the rivalry, contributing to its rich tradition.
Nick Saban's Perspective on the Rivalry
The legitimacy of the rivalry is further validated by Nick Saban, a West Virginia native, who affirmed its significance. During his time as a coach at West Virginia, he was directly involved in the Backyard Brawl. Interestingly, Saban noted that his experience with the rivalry was challenging, as Dan Marino was the quarterback for Pittsburgh. Saban, as the defensive backs coach at WVU, had a record of 0-2 in the series.
