California_Panther

Pitt and the Steelers co-exist very well. The Rooney family and the University have a long history. Remember that back in the 50s and 60s when the Steelers played at the Pirates' Forbes Field, they used to play "big" games at Pitt's Pitt Stadium (torn down after 1999 when Pitt decided to move to Heinz Field--long story there and many Panther faithful still have mixed feelings). But I wanted to correct the info about the end zones at Heinz Field--the same type style PITTSBURGH always stays in the closed end zone. Color changes depending on whoever is playing. When the Panthers play, it is painted Pitt gold with Pitt blue edging. When the Steelers play, it is painted Steeler gold with Steeler black edging. The open end zone has been ND-style stripes the past couple of years. They used to paint Steelers or Panthers in that open end zone, but it was too tough on the grass. Most all Steeler signage is covered up with Pitt signage when the Panthers play; check out the stadium aisle seats, the sides have Panther and Steeler logos side by side on them as do all the gates into the stadium. The teams also share practice facilities though they have their own separate lockers and fields. Both practice at the UPMC facility on Pittsburgh's South Side, a few miles from campus. UPMC=University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Once Pitt's regular home season is over (mid-to-late November) they usually paint a Steeler logo at mid-field. Heinz has to be the stadium shared by college and pro that undergoes the most changes to reflect who is playing that day, making it feel like the college team actually IS the home team and not just playing in a pro stadium. The Metrodome in Minneapolis does a great job also. More than you probably wanted to know, thanks for listening.