Hurricanes supporters at the University of Miami and across Coral Gables are looking toward Saturday’s game against longtime rival Notre Dame with excitement and some nerves. With Miami undefeated, fans are hoping the team can keep its winning streak going when it takes the field in South Bend, Indiana.
Miami enters the matchup ranked No. 1 for the first time in decades, while the Fighting Irish hold the No. 4 spot. The rivalry has drawn attention on campus, where students speaking with 7News on Friday said anticipation of the game was competing with their focus on coursework. Senior student Laura acknowledged that classes were not getting their full attention.
The enthusiasm came with a measure of uncertainty about the weekend. Students Ella and Nelly both described feeling excited and nervous as the game approached. Fan Leonard expressed his support with a repeated declaration: “It’s all about the U.” For the supporters interviewed, keeping Miami unbeaten was the central hope heading into the contest.
An injury to star receiver Malachi Toney has added to those concerns. The team announced that Toney had been sidelined after getting hurt during practice ahead of the Notre Dame game. Senior student Samantha pointed specifically to his injury as a reason she felt nervous about the matchup.
Other fans found grounds for confidence in the way Miami had used its receiving options in the previous game. Hurricanes supporter Robert Goodman said Toney had faced heavy coverage, prompting the team to turn to other receivers who caught passes and gained ground. That performance left Goodman hopeful that Miami could continue winning despite Toney’s absence.
As Miami’s players and staff arrived in South Bend, supporters back in South Florida offered spirited messages for their opponents. Nelly’s warning was brief: “Watch out!” Goodman also challenged the Fighting Irish, telling them, “You better be afraid!” The comments reflected the friendly but fierce mood among fans ahead of the rivalry game.
Notre Dame supporters in South Bend were also ready for Miami’s arrival. Fans there said they had not forgotten the history between the two teams as they prepared for the latest meeting.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Saturday, with coverage on ABC Miami Channel 18. Across South Florida, several businesses will hold watch parties for Hurricanes and Notre Dame fans following the game from afar.
