MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – One of South Florida’s most storied sports traditions, the Orange Bowl, is set to captivate fans as Notre Dame and Penn State face off in the national semifinal at Hard Rock Stadium on Thursday.
The excitement is palpable in Miami Beach, where fans from both programs gathered on Wednesday.
“Look at the fans lining up here from Penn State and Notre Dame,” said Local 10′s Will Manso. “They’ve made the trip to this great weather in South Florida to watch these two historic programs battle.”
A pep rally featuring the bands from both schools was scheduled to run until 8:30 p.m., adding to the celebratory atmosphere ahead of the high-stakes matchup.
Earlier in the day, Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman and Penn State head coach James Franklin spoke at the traditional coaches’ press conference.
Franklin, reflecting on Freeman’s success, joked about their generational differences.
“How old are you now, Marcus? Thirty-eight? Look at the hairline on this guy,” Franklin said with a smile. “Marcus has done a phenomenal job and obviously he is the leader of one of the most storied programs in college football history.”
Freeman responded graciously, acknowledging Franklin’s experience.
“Coach Frank has a lot more experience, one being a head coach in college football and just being in college athletics,” he said.
As fans soak in the pageantry and tradition of college football, the anticipation continues to build for Thursday night’s game.
The winner will earn a coveted spot in the national championship, further cementing this Orange Bowl as a defining moment in South Florida sports history.
Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.