Powerful match: Hurricanes have added a football game against 2 time defending…

On Wednesday, it was announced that the Miami football program has added a game against Troy, the two-time defending Sun Belt Conference champion, to its schedule for the 2027 season. Miami previously faced Troy only once, defeating them 38-7 during their undefeated 2001 National Championship season. That year marked Troy’s first in the Football Bowl Subdivision, where they finished with a 7-4 record and suffered a loss to Nebraska.

Miami, on the other hand, clinched the championship by defeating Nebraska 37-14 in the Rose Bowl. Over 23 years in the FBS, Troy has amassed a record of 159-125, including a recent run of 23-5 over the past two seasons under Jon Sumrall’s leadership. However, Sumrall has since moved on to Tulane, and Gerad Parker has taken over as head coach.

Despite their success, Troy has struggled against ACC opponents, holding a 1-13 record, with their sole victory coming against Florida State in 2006. Additionally, they have faced challenges against programs from Power Conferences, holding a 14-42 record, and have an 8-10 record against Big XII teams, primarily due to their success against Central Florida with a 6-3 record.

Troy had a long history with UCF, playing them in nine consecutive seasons from 1987 to 1995. During the 2023 season, they faced Power Conference opponents Kansas State and Duke in the Birmingham Bowl, suffering losses of 42-13 and 17-10, respectively. Looking ahead, Troy has nine games scheduled against power conference opponents up to 2032.

In 2027, Miami will be one of two power conference opponents for Troy. Following their game at Hard Rock Stadium, Troy will host Mississippi State. Meanwhile, South Carolina is the only other non-conference game scheduled for Miami that year. Miami’s most recent encounter with a Sun Belt team was a 25-23 victory over Appalachian State in 2021.

In ACC play for 2027, Miami will host California, Georgia Tech, Louisville, and Virginia, while they’ll hit the road to play Duke, Florida State, North Carolina State, and Virginia Tech. It’s likely Miami will add another Group of Five opponent and one from the FCS to complete their 2027 schedule.