Notre Dame, Miami Renew Historic Rivalry at Hard Rock Stadium

The historic college football rivalry between the University of Miami Hurricanes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, famously dubbed "Catholics vs. Convicts," is rooted in the 1980s and continues to capture attention. This nickname originated from a controversial t-shirt in 1988 and was popularized by an ESPN documentary, reflecting Miami's legal troubles at the time, though the rivalry itself dates back to 1955. The 1988 matchup remains iconic, notably for a disputed play involving Miami running back Cleveland Gary, who insists he scored a touchdown that was ruled a fumble, a call that helped Notre Dame secure a 31-30 victory and eventually win the national championship. The rivalry featured numerous defining moments, including Miami's dominant 51-point win in 1985 and intense games through the late 1980s and early 1990s, with a hiatus until their next meeting in 2010. Former Miami players like Lamar Thomas and Randall Hill reflect on the rivalry's fierce competitiveness and cultural significance, describing the animosity and pride it inspires among participants and fans. The matchup continues to be a major event, highlighting both teams' storied histories and the deep emotions connected to this classic college football feud.