Clash of the Rivals

In-state rivalries define college sports. Their histories run deep due to century-long battles from schools that were established in a time before the internal combustion engine. Attending a really good in-state rivalry game inspires not only caution but also fear. And the state of Florida has been spoiled with three...

By Ric Delgado

September 5, 2013

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In-state rivalries define college sports. Their histories run deep due to century-long battles from schools that were established in a time before the internal combustion engine. Attending a really good in-state rivalry game inspires not only caution but also fear. And the state of Florida has been spoiled with three dominant sports-focused universities: Florida State, the University of Miami, and the University of Florida. And even though UM versus FSU has brought about more drama, there’s one thing both teams can agree on: Damn, it feels good to hate the Gators. Maybe it stems from UF’s belief that it’s the “Harvard of the South,” or perhaps it’s that ridiculous Gator chomp cheer. Even worse, many Miamians attend school in Gainesville and then return home to infest the stands of Sun Life Stadium (2269 NW 199th St., Miami Gardens) for any UM “home game” versus UF. The solution: Intimidate them out of the place. Every UM fan who lived through the ’80s and ’90s knows exactly what we’re talking about.
Sat., Sept. 7, noon, 2013

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