As I was watching the Ga. Tech Miami game last night and heard references to the Miami teams of old, I began to wonder if they really could return to national prominence on a yearly basis. I came to the conclusion that they have one major obstacle - Landshark stadium.
The stands were not filled, the noise was low, and the baseball field took something away aesthetically. The home field advantage is non existent at Landshark stadium. Plus, there's no pageantry there. When I look around at the top programs in the country, especially teams from the SEC, home field advantage is huge. The Swamp, the Big House, Touchdown Jesus, Between the Hedges, The Coliseum, The Shoe, Happy Valley, and Death Valley provide a 12th Man (quick reference to Aggieland) if you will. Landshark stadium will never created a home field atmosphere, something Miami will need if they truly want to return to the glory days. They need a home field where opposing players dread playing, especially at night.
Plus, I imagine a large aspect of recruiting is showing off a team's game day environment. Everything from traditions, tailgating, students sections, and stadium have a role recruiting. Miami's tame stadium along with it's lack of history will hamper recruiting efforts, particularly for those players looking for history, pageantry, and tradition (all of the things that make college football great).
To say these things pains me, as a Miami fan, but I believe them to be true. Hopefully Landshark stadium will not be permanent and the Canes will be relocated to a proper home. Until such time, Miami will have difficulty maintaining there dominance as they did in the 80's and 90's.
As for this year though - fear the U.
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