Will facing the ‘U’ of the South’ elevate the Utes’ national brand? Here’s why Utah thinks so.

Utah is set to face Miami for the first time in program history in the Vegas Kickoff Classic in 2027.

Utah is headed to Las Vegas in 2027.

On Monday, the program announced it will take on Miami for a marquee non-conference matchup during the ESPN Events’ 2027 Vegas Kickoff Classic at Allegiant Stadium on Labor Day weekend.

It will be the Utes first time taking on the Hurricanes in program history

“One of the great things about college football is that there are still first-time matchups like this one to capture the attention of fans across the nation,” John Saccenti, executive director of the Vegas Kickoff Classic, said. “...The Battle of the ‘U’ — the ‘U’ of the West against the ‘U’ of the South facing each other in the Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World — and we cannot wait.”

Utah is slated to officially join the Big 12 on Aug. 2, which is when the Pac-12 grant of rights officially expires. Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham and four players will attend Big 12 Media Days on July 8 in Las Vegas, their inaugural appearance at the conference’s annual event.

As the Utes get set to join their third conference in nearly three decades, Utah athletic director is excited for the upcoming non-conference matchup, as it will further elevate the U.’s brand.

“This is a tremendous showcase for our football program and our university to open the 2027 season on a national stage in the Vegas Kickoff Classic,” Harlan said. “It is a testament to our program and our great fans to participate in this type of event, and when the time comes, we will paint Allegiant Stadium red once again.”

The date, time and network for Utah’s matchup vs. Miami will be announced later.


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