Coach J.Camp and the Pittsburgh Panthers opened up their 2012 season with an unimpressive victory, but a victory nonetheless. The Panthers led 24-0 at one point in the third quarter before their offense started going stagnant and Rice controlled the tempo, but Pitt held on for a 24-17 win.

"We played pretty bad. Controlling the clock is a must if you want to win games, and we didn't do that at all today. Good thing Rice is a pretty bad team," Coach J.Camp said after picking up his first career coaching victory. Rice really did control the clock, holding the ball for just over 19 minutes, while Pitt had it for just over 9 minutes.

Panthers quarterback Matt Holley tossed two first half touchdown passes to receiver Nate Torres, including a 71 yard strike in the second quarter. Cornerback John Hodges 48 yard interception just before halftime gave Pitt a comfortable 21-0 lead at the break.

After a booming 55 yard field goal by Panthers kicker Anthony Harris, Rice responded almost immediately, and in dramatic fashion, as their junior halfback Tevita Richard broke free for a 70 yard touchdown run. In the fourth quarter Rice would cause a safety, and on their ensuing drive Richard rushed for his second touchdown of the game, bringing the score to 24-17.

Matt Holley personally gave the Owls a chance to tie with 1:30 left in the game by throwing his second interception, but solid defensive play led by All-American senior Shane White and the Panthers held off Rice.