Five unforgettable RedHawk moments in the Battle for the Victory Bell

The Battle for the Victory Bell is not only a historic rivalry for Miami University, but for the sport of college football. Miami and the University of Cincinnati Bearcats have been facing off since 1888, making it one of the oldest rivalries in college football. There are many moments that stand out from this game’s history, but five define Miami’s history in the rivalry.

1917: Miami wins 40-0

Miami’s defense was incredible all year, as it did not allow a point the entire season. The win over the Bearcats helped Miami finish the season undefeated, but also served as a testament to its dominance early in the program’s history..

While this game happened over a century ago, it still remains an iconic piece of Miami football lore.

1998: Miami wins 41-0

Miami traveled to Cincinnati and triumphed over the Bearcats 41-0. The 41-point win remains Miami’s largest margin of victory over Cincinnati in the rivalry.

The game was a great example of Miami’s control of the rivalry during the 1990s. The RedHawks were able to win the Victory Bell five times during the decade.

2003: Miami wins 43-37

One of the most memorable players in Miami football history is former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. His final game against Cincinnati was not disappointing.

In the 2003 rendition, Roethlisberger was able to throw for 377 yards and two touchdowns, completing 31 of 49 passes during the game.

Miami jumped out to a big lead, with the score 42-17 after the game’s third quarter, but Cincinnati launched a massive comeback. The Bearcats cut the lead to 42-37, making the ending a lot more stressful for Miami fans.

With only 40 seconds left in the game, Cincinnati fumbled a punt, allowing Miami to take control and run out the clock. The RedHawks held on for the 42-37 victory.

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Roethlisberger was later drafted in the first round of the NFL draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.

His final game against Cincinnati is just one part of his legacy as a RedHawk.

2005: Miami wins 44-16

Two years later, the RedHawks were able to continue their success against Cincinnati, winning 44-16 in 2005.

The win gave Miami its fourth win in five years over the Bearcats. This was a particularly memorable win because it would be the final time Miami held the Victory Bell before its losing streak.

At the time, Miami fans could not know how long it would be until the Bell was back in Oxford, but it is evident now that the 2005 victory played a major role in the history of the rivalry. It was the end of one of Miami’s most successful streaks against Cincinnati.

2023: Miami wins 31-24

The most recent Miami victory over the Bearcats might be the most exciting.

After losing 16 straight games to Cincinnati, Miami was able to end the skid in 2023 with a 31-24 overtime victory.

The game had an incredible ending, including Miami tying the game late in the fourth quarter, and defensive back Yahsyn McKee blocking a potential Cincinnati game-winning field goal with only seconds remaining.

That sent the game to overtime, where Miami got the ball first and long-time quarterback Brett Gabbert found wide receiver Joe Wilkins Jr. for an eight-yard touchdown. Cincinnati had a chance to answer, but McKee picked off a fourth down pass in the end zone to seal the win, bringing the Victory Bell back to Oxford.

The Victory Bell rivalry has lasted long enough to create many amazing moments for Miami fans. With the rivalry coming to a conclusion on Saturday, Sept. 19, the RedHawks hope to deliver one more unforgettable moment against Cincinnati.

mcdona97@miamioh.edu