Cincinnati Football: Reviewing the series history against rival RedHawks

One of the oldest rivalries in college football history will continue when the Bearcats take on Miami in the Battle for the Victory Bell on Saturday at noon. With the all-time series tied, Cincinnati can finally surpass the RedHawks for the first time in over a century.

Even though the Bearcats have won 15 consecutive games to tie the series 59-59-7, Miami has held an advantage since 1915. Luke Fickell talked about the opportunity to finally surge past the rival RedHawks per Cincinnati Athletics.

"“We have a lot of guys from different areas that don’t know a lot about it. Our job is to make sure we teach them about it. Most importantly, make sure they respect what they’re apart of. They definitely know that and they know we haven’t had a lead since 1915.”"

The inaugural matchup between the two programs took place in 1888 and marked the first college football game in Ohio state history. Now it’s the most-played rivalry among in-state opponents and the fifth most-played rivalry in the country.

Cincinnati Football: Reviewing the series history against rival RedHawks

Just over a decade ago, the schools agreed to play at Paul Brown Stadium every four seasons including this weekend and extended the series through 2029. Fickell explained why the rivalry should continue to be played for as long it can via Cincinnati Athletics.

"“I’m a big traditionalist and I love rivalries. That’s what makes college football and that’s the uniqueness of it. Over time, things change and programs move and grow. I would love to continue traditions that are really important. This is history. If I had a choice, we would continue this rivalry as long as we can.”"

After mostly being played at Nippert Stadium until 1970, the rivalry has bounced between Cincinnati and Oxford with several neutral site games at Paul Brown Stadium (recently renamed Paycor Stadium) and Riverfront Stadium mixed in at times as well.

A year ago, the schools met in the season opener for the first time in rivalry history and Cincinnati walked away with a 49-14 blowout win at Nippert Stadium. One major difference this time around is Ivan Pace Jr. will be making plays for the Bearcats instead.

Following three years at Miami, the Cincinnati native transferred back home during last offseason and has made an immediate impact. Pace appeared in two games against the Bearcats and will now get a chance to take on many of his former teammates.

The most recent matchup at Paul Brown Stadium was in 2018 as Cincinnati dominated Miami in a 21-0 win. According to WynnBET, the upcoming game is not expected to be close either with the Bearcats opening as 22.5-point favorites prior to kick off.