Former Miami Hurricanes wide receiver and Pro Football Hall of Famer Michael Irvin has recently revisited the conclusion of the 2003 Fiesta Bowl, where a disputed pass interference call played a pivotal role in Ohio State's national championship victory over the Hurricanes.
On Wednesday, Irvin took to Instagram to express his lingering frustration regarding the game-deciding penalty. He posted a photo of himself at Ohio State, symbolically stomping near a sign, accompanied by a caption that read: "This is me @OhioStateFB stomping on the grave of that PASS Interference ghost... that cheated us out of our... CHAMPIONSHIP!!!! THAT'S TWO RINGS I LOST ON BAD P.I. CALLS!!!!"
The play in question occurred during the first overtime of the 2003 Fiesta Bowl. Miami was leading 24-17 when Ohio State faced a 4th-and-3 from the Hurricanes' five-yard line. Buckeyes QB Craig Krenzel targeted WR Chris Gamble in the end zone, with Miami CB Glenn Sharpe in coverage. Initially, no penalty was called, and it appeared the Hurricanes had secured the victory and national championship. However, a late flag for defensive pass interference was thrown against Sharpe, giving Ohio State a fresh set of downs. The Buckeyes capitalized on the opportunity and eventually won the game 31-24 in double OT.
The call has been a subject of debate for over two decades, with many Miami supporters believing it altered the outcome of the championship. Irvin's recent comments have reignited discussions among college football fans and analysts about the impact of that call specifically and officiating decisions on game results.
Since that game, the Hurricanes have not won another national championship, with their last title coming in 2001. The program has faced challenges in returning to the pinnacle of college football, making the memories of the 2003 Fiesta Bowl all the more poignant for the Hurricanes faithful. Irvin's outspoken nature and connection to the Hurricanes continue to keep things interesting, even in the heart of the offseason.