Pitt declined an offer by ESPN and the Big East to move its opener at South Florida to Labor Day. The game will be played at 7 p.m. Sept. 4 .

"We considered the proposal but after looking at the impact it would have on our fans and their travel plans, our training camp schedule and preparation for our home opener [Sept. 11], decided it wasn't in our best interest," said Pitt athletic director Jeff Long.

Had the game been moved to Labor Day, Pitt would have been left with only four days to prepare for its home opener with Ohio.

The South Florida game was originally scheduled for Sept. 25th but, at Pitt's request, was moved to the first week of the season because Pitt needed that date to fill out its schedule.

Officials at South Florida were hoping Pitt would return the favor and move the game again, but Long said the two issues are separate.

"South Florida is a good partner and they assisted us by moving the game originally. We're reasonable people and if someone could show us how this would really benefit the long term of the Big East or South Florida, we'd be willing to listen, even if though isn't in our best interest. But nobody has done that."