The University of Miami and Florida International University have not played a football game against each other since 2007, but that could change in the next few years.
Seven years after their 2006 game was marred by an ugly on-field brawl at the Orange Bowl, the two schools are discussing the possibility of renewing their football rivalry, according to the Miami Herald.
"Our hope would be we are able to work something out," UM athletic director Blake James told the Herald. "We would play one game at Sun Life for sure and then explore opportunities for other potential games."
The schools made national headlines on October 14, 2006 when a fight broke out on the field following a PAT attempt by Miami in the third quarter. Both sidelines cleared, and thirteen players were ejected.
Game footage showed Miami safety Anthony Reddick swinging his helmet at FIU players, Brandon Meriweather cleating another player, and injured FIU RB A'Mod Ned swinging at Miami players with his crutches.
31 players combined for both teams were suspended following the fight (18 from FIU, 13 from Miami), and the schools decided to end the series after the previously-scheduled 2007 match-up (which went off without any incidents).
The two schools have not played each other in any sport since 2010. FIU athletic director Pete Garcia told the Herald that FIU Stadium is not big enough to host a UM game, but that the school would be interesting in hosting UM at another venue like Marlins Park.
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Talks are still in the early stages, but FIU President Mark Rosenberg was optimistic after he and UM President Donna Shalala spoke about the possibility. "It's something we would like," he told the Herald. "She would like to see it."
