Penn State and Pitt extend series another two years

(Pittsburgh) -- Penn State and Pitt plan to play each other in 2018 and '19, extending a previous deal that revived the dormant series.

The Panthers and Nittany Lions, originally slated to resume their rivalry in 2016-17, will also now play at Heinz Field Sept. 8, 2018, and Beaver Stadium Sept. 14, 2019.

The series dates to 1893 and was played all but three times from 1900-1992, when Penn State joined the Big Ten. It often was the regular-season finale.

The schools met from 1997-2000 but not since. Penn State leads the series, 50-42-4.

Both schools could use the jolt the rivalry's buzz creates. Pitt, which joins the ACC next season, has had trouble filling Heinz Field. Visits from Penn State are considered sure sellouts. And the Nittany Lions experienced an attendance drop this season.