As college football fans gear up for the upcoming season, all eyes are drawn to one of the sport’s fiercest rivalries: the Backyard Brawl. With just 100 days until kickoff, the animosity between rivals West Virginia and Pitt has been reignited, propelled into the spotlight by an unexpected incident involving former West Virginia cornerback Beanie Bishop.
Recently, Bishop, now a starter for the Pittsburgh Steelers, made headlines for stomping on the Pitt logo during a public event. The move has drawn the ire of fans and media alike, prompting Pitt head coach Pat Narduzzi to respond with a quote attributed to the legendary Bear Bryant about class and respect. However, it’s worth noting that the competitive environment between these two teams often dances on the edge of decorum, with both sides having engaged in their share of verbal and, yes, sometimes physical jousts.
The rivalry, rich in history and fueled by passion, thrives on moments like these. Is Bishop’s stomping on the logo disrespectful? Perhaps. But isn’t that precisely what makes rivalries so compelling? The drama, the back-and-forth exchanges, and the overwhelming sense of pride at stake make these matchups must-watch events.
On Thursday, Steelers center Zach Frazier, who shared the field with Bishop at West Virginia, offered his thoughts on the unfolding situation. When asked about the incident, Frazier admitted he hadn’t seen the video but provided a light-hearted take on why logos like Pitt’s should not occupy the ground beneath players’ feet. “I mean, personally, I think logos like that should be on the wall or ceiling,” he stated, hinting at a preference for more respect in the way institutions are represented.
Frazier’s response took an amusing turn when questioned about whether he would ever consider emulating Bishop’s antics, given his more reserved demeanor. With a grin, he quipped, “I mean, I wouldn’t take a video of it.” His reaction added a touch of humor to an already charged atmosphere, showcasing that while the rivalry may inspire intense emotions, there’s always room for laughter among the players.
As the countdown to the season begins, expect this rivalry to continue heating up. The steam and stories leading into the Backyard Brawl will make for an electric atmosphere, blending tradition, boasting, and a strong sense of community pride. With players and fans alike fully invested, it’s clear that this matchup will once again become a highlight of the college football landscape.
