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Pitt honors Mike Ditka with No. 89 decals
What Happened
Pitt will honor Mike Ditka with No. 89 decals Saturday, Oct. 10, against North Carolina, one day after the school legend and former Chicago Bears coach died at 86. Athletic director Allen Greene announced the tribute Friday, Oct. 9. “Mike Ditka was the embodiment of a Pitt man. He brought the toughness and pride of western Pennsylvania to Pitt and carried our name to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In his memory, @Pitt_FB will wear 89 decals tomorrow against UNC. Our condolences to the Ditka family,” Greene said. The tribute comes in a game that could move Pitt to 6-0 and test its standing in the ACC. Holden Geriner is scheduled to start at quarterback against a 2-2 North Carolina team that lost 28-20 at Clemson on Sept. 19 and 37-26 to Notre Dame on Oct. 3. Kickoff is set for noon Eastern in Pittsburgh. Narduzzi said he wants Pitt players to understand the standard attached to Ditka’s name: “When our players see Mike Ditka’s name, I want them to know how he competed. He gave everything and expected the same from his teammates. His toughness will forever be part of this program! Our thoughts & prayers are with his family and everyone he impacted. Rest in Peace, Coach.”
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Sources: On3
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