Alabama and Miami will face off for the first time in 28 years. The game will take place in Atlanta to open the 2021 season at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and serve as the Chick-Fil-A kickoff game. 

“It’s truly special when you can create a dream matchup like this featuring two of the biggest brands in college football,” said Peach Bowl, Inc. CEO and President Gary Stokan. “The Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game has been fortunate enough to attract some of college football’s most decorated programs. This matchup will certainly continue that tradition.” 

It will be the first time the Crimson Tide and Hurricanes have met since the 1993 Sugar Bowl when No. 2 Alabama defeated No. 1 Miami, 34-13, to capture a national championship. The game ended Miami’s 

The game will be the 18th time Alabama and Miami have faced off. Alabama currently leads the 14-3 all time. This game will be Alabama’s seventh appearance in the Chick-Fil-A kickoff game since its inception in 2008. Alabama already has plans to participate in the event in 2019 when the Crimson Tide faces Duke. Alabama is currently 5-0 in Chick-Fil-A kickoff games, with its most recent victory coming against Florida State on Saturday.

“We are pleased to have the opportunity to open another season in Atlanta for the 2021 Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game. Our team and our fans have always enjoyed playing in Atlanta and Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a fantastic competitive environment,” said Alabama Head Coach Nick Saban in a press release. “This event always has the feel of a bowl game and the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl staff has made it a first-class event. We have a lot of respect for Coach Richt and the Miami program, and we look forward to a great game in 2021.”