UM Announced New Long-Term Sponsorship With In-State Rival

MIAMI, Fla. – The University of Miami Athletics announced a multi-year sponsorship with Progressive, alongside Florida State University, making it the presenting sponsor of the Hurricanes-Seminoles rivalry, in a press release.

Legends Global facilitated the partnership in collaboration with Miami Athletics and Florida State Athletics’ partnership teams.

“Few rivalries in college sports carry the passion, history and statewide significance of Miami vs. Florida State,” said Jesse Marks, University of Miami Athletics Chief Revenue Officer. “Progressive’s partnership allows us to build on that tradition while creating an innovative model for how brands can engage with our fans. We’re proud to welcome Progressive to the Miami Hurricanes’ family by celebrating this rivalry.”

In today’s world of college sports, the financial side has become an increasingly important topic. Whether it’s how much a program spends or a player’s salary in a season, the landscape has significantly changed over the years.

This college football season, several teams will have sponsorship patches on their jerseys:

- Notre Dame: SoFi

- Ohio State: JPMoranChase

- LSU: Woodside Energy

- Arkansas: Tyson Foods

- Wisconsin: Culver’s

- Oklahoma State: Osage Nation

Several other teams are involved in the latest trend. However, the Hurricanes do not have a jersey patch sponsor. Instead, Progressive will have its logo displayed on the field at Hard Rock Stadium and Doak Campbell Stadium throughout the season.

The Hurricanes and Seminoles rivalry goes all the way back to the early 1950s. It’s become one of the most iconic matchups in all college sports, but especially in football. After 70 all-time meetings, the Hurricanes have a 37-33 edge over the Seminoles.

Both teams are on different trajectories this season.

The Hurricanes are coming off a trip to the National Championship. Despite falling short 27-21 to Indiana, it marked a successful turnaround under Mario Cristobal’s leadership. The Hurricanes are the early favorites to win the Atlantic Coast Conference and return to the College Football Playoffs.

Meanwhile, the Seminoles are coming off a 5-7 overall season. There’s little expectation surrounding the program, other than Mike Norvell being on the hot seat. He’s circled as the next head coach to be fired during the season.

It’s clear one side is making better headlines than the other.

The Hurricanes will host the Seminoles on Oct. 17. Fans of “The U” are encouraged to wear orange and rally towels will be handed out. The Hurricanes are very likely to be favored for the matchup.

Progressive will have an opportunity to activate its presenting sponsorship at Hard Rock Stadium as the rivalry returns to South Florida.

Given the Hurricanes’ aggressiveness in the transfer portal over the last couple of years, it requires serious financial resources. The new sponsorship will soon play a role in roster construction.

The 2026-27 college football season will officially kick off on Saturday, but the Hurricanes don’t take the field until next Friday against Stanford at 9:00 p.m. E.T. on ESPN.

Anthony Aguirre covers the Miami Hurricanes, Miami Heat, and Miami Marlins for Roundtable Sports. Contact info for tips/info: [email protected] & 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports