127th Battle For The Victory Bell
MIAMI (OHIO) vs CINCINNATI BEARCATS
31 24 OT
Nippert Stadium 09/16/23 Cincinnati, OH.
Photos By: Toby Clark
CINCINNATI – In a thrilling overtime showdown, Brett Gabbert delivered an 8-yard touchdown pass to Joe Wilkins Jr., lifting the Miami Redhawks to a dramatic 31-24 victory over their oldest rival, the Cincinnati Bearcats, on Saturday night. This win snapped a 16-game losing streak in the storied series, marking Miami’s first victory over Cincinnati since 2005.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the Bearcats coming agonizingly close to a win in regulation. With time expiring, Cincinnati lined up for a 35-yard field goal attempt, but Carter Brown’s kick was spectacularly blocked by Yahsyn McKee, forcing the game into overtime. McKee wasn’t done yet—he sealed the victory for the Redhawks by intercepting Emory Jones’ pass on fourth down from the 2-yard line, ending Cincinnati’s hopes and sending the Miami faithful into a frenzy.
The Redhawks wasted no time making their presence felt, shocking the Bearcats with a stunning 79-yard touchdown pass from Gabbert to Gage Larvadain on the very first play from scrimmage. This early strike put Cincinnati in an unfamiliar position, trailing for the first time this season. The Bearcats, however, responded with an 80-yard drive of their own, culminating in a 4-yard touchdown run by Corey Kiner.
From there, the game was a tense back-and-forth battle, with the lead changing hands four times. Cincinnati repeatedly threatened inside the Miami 10-yard line but was forced to settle for three field goals across the first three quarters, failing to capitalize on their opportunities.
Gabbert, the younger brother of NFL quarterback Blaine Gabbert, was a standout for Miami, throwing for 229 yards and two touchdowns while also leading his team in rushing with 58 yards. His leadership and poise under pressure were crucial in Miami’s triumph, evening the all-time series record to 60-60-7.
The rivalry game also featured a notable family connection. Minnesota Vikings rookie linebacker Ivan Pace Jr., who attended the game, is a former Miami player who transferred to Cincinnati last season to play alongside his brother, Deshawn Pace. Ivan made history as the first Bearcat to be named a first-team All-American on all five recognized lists, including the Associated Press.
The Lichtenberg family also had a unique presence in the game, with Cincinnati’s backup quarterback, Brady Lichtenberg, watching as his younger brother, Blake, suited up for Miami. Both quarterbacks hail from Toledo, Ohio, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the rivalry.
Up Next:
- Miami: The Redhawks will look to build on this momentum as they host Delaware State next Saturday.
- Cincinnati: The Bearcats face a formidable challenge as they kick off their Big 12 Conference schedule against No. 19 Oklahoma on Saturday.