His dad lived it. His brother lived it.
Now, Frank Cignetti Jr. is re-living the Backyard Brawl as Pitt's offensive coordinator.
The Cignetti family has been integrated on both sides of the rivalry for nearly 50 years. Come Thursday's 7 p.m. kickoff, though, the household will be wearing the Panther shades of blue and gold.
“We’re Pitt Panther fans, let’s make no mistake,” Cignetti said. “Our family heritage is from western Pennsylvania. We had a little stop in Morgantown that didn’t end very well. Make no mistake, man. We are Pitt Panthers.”