Hurricanes And Gators To Open 2019 Season With Game In Orlando
Call it a rivalry renewed.
A deal has been finalized that'll set up a showdown between the University of Miami and the University of Florida on the football field for the first time since 2013.
The game, which will be a part of the Camping World Kickoff, will take place at Camping World Stadium to open the 2019 season. Camping World is the new corporate sponsor for the Orlando Citrus Bowl and the series of kickoff games.
Camping World CEO Marcus Lemonis announced the agreement Tuesday between the schools, Florida Citrus Sports and ESPN.
"When we first started the discussion about the Kickoff series, we told FCSports that their continued pursuit of high caliber teams was key if our name were to be tied to the series," Lemonis said in a statement. "The Florida and Miami matchup is another great example of that commitment and we're thrilled to help ensure that the highest quality matchups are brought to the Central Florida community.
The game in 2019 will be the 56th meeting between the Canes and Gators. Miami holds a 29-26 all-time advantage in the series, which had its inaugural meeting in 1938.
The most recent meeting was a 21-16 win for the Hurricanes in Miami, September 7th, 2013.
Also, the 2019 season opener will be the seventh game between the two schools played at a neutral site – the second in Orlando.