Orange Bowl: Arivaderche

History and tradition are not saviors. History cannot erase erosion. Tradition cannot supplant amenities. History cannot ease deterioration. Tradition cannot erect luxury suites. History and tradition convey institution. Institution scream outdated.

On Tuesday, the historic Orange Bowl was abandoned. Beginning in 2008, Dolphins Stadium will host the Miami Hurricanes. Concerning this decision, Miami Athletic Director Paul Dee expressed indifference. “When you look back at the history and all that we have done in that stadium and all that's been accomplished there, frankly, it was accomplished by a group of people on the field,” Dee said. “It was accomplished by a group of people in the stands. The Orange Bowl never scored a touchdown. The Orange Bowl never cheered. It was the people that were there.”

Since 1926, the Hurricanes have accrued a 540-297-19 record. They have tallied eighteen postseason wins. They garnered four national championships. They have produced 129 professionals. The Orange Bowl has witnessed all.

History and tradition cannot speak. They cannot articulate a case. The Orange Bowl has hosted five Super Bowls, the NFL Pro Bowl, the North-South Shrine Game, an NFL powerhouse, a collegiate dynasty, Bruce Springsteen, the Rolling Stones, and Prince. This fabled showcase deserves greater than silent demolition.