Inside The Panthers

Pitt RB Israel Abanikanda Reacts to Breaking Tony Dorsett's Record

The Pitt Panthers star running back knew a record-setting night was possible.

Noah Strackbein

Pitt RB Israel Abanikanda Reacts to Breaking Tony Dorsett's Record
Pitt RB Israel Abanikanda Reacts to Breaking Tony Dorsett's Record /
In this story:

PITTSBURGH -- The Pitt Panthers have a new single-game rushing record holder. During the team's Week 6 win over Virginia Tech, star running back Israel Abanikanda totaled 320 yards on the ground, breaking Tony Dorsett's record and embedding himself in the history books. 

Abanikanda finished the historic night rushing 36 times for 320 yards and six touchdowns - which ties the school's single-game touchdown record. He knew the record was in his hands when he jogged out in the fourth quarter and knew if anyone was going to break it, it was going to be him. 

"I was just showing them me," Abanikanda said. "I've always been like that my whole life, since I was four years old and started playing football. It's not anything new to me. I've been doing this."

Abanikanda isn't holding back his confidence, but he also took a moment to acknowledge the legendary achievement he just accomplished - and the legendary player he surpassed.

"I was honored," Abanikanda said. "First, I want to thank God and my family, my o-line, my whole team - running backs, quarterbacks, defense too for getting the offense off the field. My coaches too. I want to thank everybody. I'm just thankful."

He looked back at a pee-wee football game where he rushed for seven touchdowns to show that he knows he has more in him. But for now, he'll take a Bye Week break to recover and spend some time reflecting on his big night. 

"It feels amazing. Unreal," Abanikanda said. "But also, I know what I'm capable of. It's nothing new. But it feels unreal breaking these legendary players' records."

Make sure you bookmark Inside the Panthers for the latest news, exclusive interviews, recruiting coverage and so much more!

Israel Abanikanda Breaks Pitt Rushing Record

More Details Emerge on Dior Johnson's Arrest

Pitt G Dior Johnson Suspensed After Felony Assault Charges

Georgia Tech Loss 'Woke a Beast' Inside Pitt

It's Time to Take a Hard Look at Pat Narduzzi

Pitt WR Jaden Bradley Thriving in Simpler Role

Published
Noah Strackbein
NOAH STRACKBEIN

Noah is the Publisher for Inside the Panthers and All Steelers, and is the host of All Steelers Talk. A Scranton native, Noah made his way to the Pittsburgh sports scene in 2017. Now, years later, he's almost full yinzer. 

Home/Football