Have you ever looked up two minutes before the end of the fourth quarter of a crucial Pitt football game and wondered, “Would this team be more of a meat team or a carb team?” If so, you’re not alone. In stressful or fun moments, our minds often wander to hypothetical questions — like what food each Pitt Athletics team would eat.

Editor James Carter shares his hot take on which food he thinks best embodies the teams the Pitt community cheers for. Some Pitt teams require a lot of thought, but some comparisons speak for themselves. Regardless, the choices are food for thought.

Football = Pizza

Football and pizza are both staples of American culture and cuisine. Pizza is a fan favorite for tailgate parties and games, readily available and familiar to everyone.

When it comes to Pitt football, the comparison boils down to the reliability of Pitt football. Since the turn of the century, Pitt has only finished below .500 four times. Although Pitt is rarely among the national elite, fans can count on the Panthers to have a winning season. Pizza is as reliable and ubiquitous as football. You know what to expect when you order a slice, just as you more or less know how the upcoming football season will turn out.

Volleyball = Filet Mingon

Since Pitt volleyball has risen to the elite of college volleyball, it’s only fitting that they are associated with the food of the elite. Filet mignon is a rare commodity, meaning one rarely gets the opportunity to eat this dish. This is perfectly reflected in Pitt volleyball’s championship status, which has become a top topic of conversation in Oakland. The Panthers have not yet achieved definitive #1 status, but you can easily find them in the VIP section of the volleyball discussion.

Men’s Basketball = Hot Wings

In recent years, Pitt basketball has gained relevance with its performance. The Panthers have done this with a flashy offense and heat from three-point land. Hot wings add just as much glitz, heat and excitement to a party or a bar.

Zach Austin is especially known for his exciting dunks and his play over the basket, similar to dipping chicken wings in dipping sauces.

Men’s and women’s football = Bratwurst

Pitt soccer has found success with some European flair in recent years, with the men’s team reaching the national semifinals in 2022 and the women’s team reaching the Elite Eight last season. Now both teams appear poised to compete for even more tournament success.

Football and bratwurst are very popular among football fans and in society. The hearty taste of a good bratwurst almost always leaves a good impression and, much like football in the Pitt community, is still somewhat underrated.

Wrestling = Ribeye

Similar to volleyball, Pitt Wrestling has established itself as one of the best wrestling programs in the country, especially with Nino Bonaccorsi will win a national championship in 2023. Although ribeye steaks don’t have the same status as filet mignon, ribeye steaks can still fetch a pretty penny at your local steakhouse or supermarket. Plus, a little more beef than filet mignon is perfect for getting in great wrestling shape for current or aspiring Pitt wrestlers.

Athletics and cross country running = energy bars

Whether you’re preparing for a race or running that last mile, an energy bar is a solid and often overlooked nutritional option. Pitt’s track and field and cross country programs share that distinction while also being a good fit for their sport. These programs are by no means “world-beating,” but there’s a lot of talent on these teams that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Baseball and softball = hot dogs

Hot dogs are a cornerstone of the ballpark and synonymous with America’s pastime. Although they’re a little plain and uninteresting, hot dogs with added ingredients make a delicious mid-game meal. Pitt baseball and softball haven’t had the best performance in recent years, but with a few new additions and the right things going in their favor, both teams have the potential to make a splash in the ACC.