The Miami-Loyola betting line is an accumulation of the public’s perception of this rivalry. The line can vary in the odds it offers on each game but, generally, the spread is between 3.5 and 5 points. For example, if you see -3 posted, this usually means there is a 3.5-point spread between the two teams. The same is true for -2 and +2 spreads. These are just general guidelines. Each bookmaker has its own policies regarding these lines and they may change without notice. The lines are not exact science. For instance, -3 might mean a 3.5-point or a 4-point spread, depending on the bookmaker’s style. The important thing to keep in mind is that the line is a reflection of the public’s perception of this rivalry.
History
Before we begin, it is important to note that this rivalry is much more than 200 years old. It began as a friendly game between two Catholic institutions until 1869 when the Fighting Irish and the Catholic University agreed to form their first ever football rivalry. This rivalry continued for almost a century until 1939 when the two rivals finally went their separate ways. Since then, they have only met once in a football bowl game, the 1953 classic in which the Fighting Irish defeated the Lions 31-0. The teams have not met since. The next year they were set to do so in the Orange Bowl, but the Notre Dame community decided to boycott the game in protest of the government’s involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. This was the birth of the modern day Miami-Loyola rivalry.
The Game
Each year the Miami-Loyola rivalry takes place on the fields of the Orange Bowl. The annual game is one of the most anticipated games of the college football season. The winner is determined by who scores the most points in the 4th quarter. The score is usually close but the Irish have had the upper hand for the past few years. Since 2009, Notre Dame is 9-3 in the Orange Bowl, winning 4 out of the past 5 games. The last 2 years have seen the most action in the history of the rivalry as the two teams play to a near-standstill in the first 3 quarters before a final flurry of points in the fourth quarter decide the victor. The 2019 game was no different as the 2 teams played a highly competitive game for 3 quarters before Notre Dame pulled away in the 4th quarter to secure a 35-24 victory.
The Environment
The Miami-Loyola rivalry is a battle of the cities. While both schools are located in the state of Florida, the bulk of the student body and administration hail from the city of Miami. The schools are also surrounded by the city’s stunning beauty. On the surface, it is a clash of cultures as Catholic and Orthodox churches face off in the stands while palm trees sway in the breeze alongside Miami’s skyscrapers. However, beneath the surface, these two institutions are at war as the student body prepares for battle.
The People
The Miami-Loyola rivalry is one of the most anticipated competitions in American sports. The atmosphere surrounding the game is electric as students, alumni and even some faculty members wear their team’s colors proudly and passionately fight for their schools and its recognition as a Tier 1 competition. The alumni and student body of these two schools fight for the right to call themselves “Ironmen” or “Fighting Irish” first, before their rivalry, with the city itself split between the two.
The Media
The media coverage surrounding this rivalry is immense. Both teams and their alumni are extremely active in the media world and the school’s athletic department and football program have a lot to offer. The Irish are a popular topic of discussion in sports and there are numerous books and documentaries about the team. They rarely, if ever, get a bad name. The same can’t be said for the Loyolas. There’s a reason why this rivalry is often called the “Battle of Miami”. The media coverage surrounding this series is important as it helps to create an environment surrounding the game to promote the highest level of interest and excitement. Many publications, including the New York Times, have ranked this among the top 5 college football rivalries in the country. It is in the top 3 for interest among fans. People are passionate about this rivalry, so much so that one of the most iconic sports bars in Miami, the Orange Bowl, was named after the venue of this rivalry. If you ever find yourself in Miami, be sure to stop by and give it a try. As for the media, this rivalry is well-covered online so if you’re looking to follow it remotely, you’re in the right place.
Where Can I Bet On The Match?
You can find online sportsbooks that offer betting on the Miami-Loyola rivalry. You’ll need to search for the line in your area as well as the team’s betting odds for different parts of the country as the line can vary from state to state. For example, -3 might be the spread in Massachusetts but it could be a full touchdown in Nevada or a half-point in Iowa, depending on where you place your bet. These sportsbooks also offer betting on all other NCAA football games happening at the same time as the rivalry, so you can place bets on all the major games simultaneously. This is a great option if you’re a fan of an upset firm or team as there is always the chance that your team will pull off an epic upset and win the game. It’s also a good idea to check out the weekly prop bet that the bookmakers offer as many people like yourself might be picking the team they think will win, based on the previous weeks game reports.
Final Takeaway
The Miami-Loyola football rivalry is one of the most exciting rivalries in the country. As the game gets closer, the interest surrounding the series increases. Students, alumni and even some faculty members of these two schools will be eager to show their support for their alma mater and crush the other team. You might just catch yourself thinking about the game as you drive to work or school, or while you’re doing your chores. The anticipation is real. That is why we have the Orange Bowl. This is one game you don’t want to miss. In fact, you might want to consider buying tickets in advance. You’ll find tons of information on the internet, so feel free to drop by and get the scoop.