Rich Rodriguez Can’t Deny West Virginia’s Backyard Brawl Win Means More

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – For Rich Rodriguez, a win over Pitt means more. While it only counts as one win, Rodriguez couldn’t deny the significance of his first victory over the Panthers since 2006, especially the way everything unfolded on Saturday night.

The Mountaineers won the 108th Backyard Brawl after mounting an improbable comeback late in the fourth quarter, eventually winning 31-24 in overtime. The win avenges last season’s blown effort, leaves the current series tied at 2-2 before it takes a break until 2029 and places some better memories on the date September 13.

WVU Vanquishes the Demons, Storming Back to Win Classic Backyard Brawl

“This state is full of tough, hard-working, gritty people that support this university and football program. Winning is important to them. Beating Pitt is really important to them,” said Rodriguez after the game, realizing the win may mean even more to the people of the state and the fans than it even does for him.

WVU HC Rich Rodriguez: “This win is for everyone associated with West Virginia.”

— Mike J. Asti (@MikeAsti11) September 14, 2025

He even joked “you could tell this game was really, really important when people started tailgating” to emphasize the importance of the week.

Rodriguez even threw love on his team for showing heart and believing all night long.

“I’m just really proud of our players. It’s really hard when you have so many news guys to try and gel as one…To come back after a tough week, focus and beat your rival.”

But no matter how much the win may mean to Rodriguez or any fan, it does only count as one. It also only brings West Virginia’s overall record to 2-1. And most importantly, it won’t mean anything to the 2025 season if it’s not followed by more wins within conference play.

Find more coverage of Rich Rodriguez and the WVU football program at WV Sports Now.