Miami played at Pitt on October 24, 2026, a game framed by Pat Narduzzi and Mario Cristobal's feud over quarterback Mason Heinschel. Pitt entered ranked first in the nation against the run, but Miami won 52-23, with Malachi Toney catching 16 passes for 194 yards and three touchdowns. Narduzzi said after the game that Miami is the number one team, a verdict that closes the pregame question about Pitt's defense. The Heinschel dispute between the coaches remains part of the backdrop.