A Rivalry Re‑Imagined
On September 19, the University of Miami will step onto the turf of TQL Stadium, marking the inaugural football contest inside the soccer‑specific arena that was built for Cincinnati’s MLS side.
The announcement was made during a press conference that gathered Miami head coach Chuck Martin, Cincinnati head coach Scott Satterfield, and FC Cincinnati co‑CEO Jeff Berding, who each emphasized the historic resonance of the matchup.
History and Series Record
The series stretches back to 1888, making it one of the oldest rivalries in college football, and Cincinnati currently leads the all‑time tally with a 61‑60‑7 record.
Both programs arrive with comparable recent records — Miami finished 7‑7 and fell in the MAC Championship, while Cincinnati posted a 7‑6 season and also exited its bowl game — setting the stage for a tightly contested battle.
Looking Forward
Ticket demand is expected to be high, with season‑ticket holders receiving first access, a factor that analysts believe will help the stadium sell out despite its unconventional use for football.
Coach Martin, who has previously played college games in soccer and baseball venues, has spoken about a trip to Dublin’s Aviva Stadium as his most memorable sporting experience, underscoring his appreciation for unique settings.
Berding, a Miami alumnus, championed the idea of staging the game at TQL Stadium, viewing it as an opportunity to showcase the venue’s versatility and deepen the connection between the two schools.
The upcoming contest will be more than a novelty; it represents a convergence of tradition and innovation, as the oldest collegiate rivalry meets a state‑of‑the‑art soccer facility repurposed for football, promising a memorable experience for players and fans alike.