Bearcats to play Virginia Tech in D.C. in 2012

STAFF REPORT

The University of Cincinnati football team will play its 2012 contest against Virginia Tech at FedExField in Landover, Md., home of the Washington Redskins, UC Director of Athletics Mike Thomas announced Monday.

"This is an exciting opportunity to play a top-flight opponent in one of the top football facilities in the country," head coach Brian Kelly said. "I have a great deal of respect for Frank Beamer and the Virginia Tech program and we are looking forward to renewing our rivalry. We also have an opportunity to play a game in our nation's capital and expose a new group of fans to what Bearcats football is all about."

The Bearcats improved to 10-0 with a 24-21 win against West Virginia on Friday night.

UC and Virginia Tech have met nine times with the Hokies holding a 5-4 advantage in the all-time series. The two teams last met in the 2009 FedEx Orange Bowl, which Virginia Tech won 20-7.

"As the program has gained more national notoriety over the last few years with national rankings, a Big East championship, and last year's BCS appearance in the Orange Bowl, we are always looking for opportunities to grow our brand beyond Cincinnati and the state of Ohio," Thomas said. "These types of games are important to the development of our championship program and help to expand our exposure on a national stage."

"We are excited to have Cincinnati and Virginia Tech playing at FedExField," Redskins Chief Marketing Officer Mitch Gershman said. "This game, a rematch of the 2009 Orange Bowl, highlights two outstanding programs and continues FedExField's commitment to hosting the most competitive and nationally acclaimed matchups in the country."

Information on ticket sales and kickoff time will be released at a later date.