Morning, I'll come through later today with my No. 3 conference. I have to knock out some interviews and then I'll finish up and post.
It was a great 71-year ride for the Miami Hurricanes in the Orange Bowl. But it's time to say "goodnight, Sweet Prince."
Starting in 2008, the team will move to Dolphin Stadium for home games.
I covered a game at the Orange Bowl in 2004 and the first thing I remember thinking is "Man, this place is completely opposite of the football program." The old and rickety venue was home to a flashy, modern team. Although I must say looking at the end zone and seeing a row of palm trees was unique, and quite beautiful.
A move to Dolphin Stadium is a step down in tradition for the Canes, but a step up in amenities and revenue. People who graduate from UM make money and spend money on things like luxury boxes.
As the AP article put it: The Hurricanes won three national championship games on that field, had a NCAA-record 58-game home winning streak from 1985 through 1994 and have drawn more than 17 million fans there over the years. Although, when I was covering what was essentially the 2004 ACC Championship game, it was anything but full.
What I don't like is that Dolphin Stadium is 20 miles from campus. 20 miles! That's almost a marathon away. I can't think of many other major programs with a similar setup. UCLA is a ways from the Rose Bowl, but at least there's Pasadena. It's the perfect stage for a football Saturday. Unless Opa Locka has changed dramatically since I've lived there, spectators will have to drive a long way, tailgate and leave.
Are there any other major programs that I'm missing?
Comments (1)
College football was meant for bleachers. A buddy of mine went to Pitt and said the atmosphere in Heinz Field was lousy. I often neglect to point out Pitt is generally lousy at anything connected to 100 yards, shoulder pads and eye-black. The amenities at Joe Robbie will be great for the creaky alumni but the student section will suffer. Freshmen/sophomores wont have the convinience of a power-hour in the dorm before stumbling to the orange bowl any more.