National Football Foundation

Miami defeated SEC Champion Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, marking the Hurricanes’ third MacArthur Bowl. Coached by Dennis Erickson, Miami finished 11-1 after a 33-25 victory against the Crimson Tide in the Sugar Bowl. The Hurricanes became the second school to claim the MacArthur Bowl under three different head coaches. The 1989 Miami team featured Hall of Fame defensive tackle Russell Maryland and Hall of Fame quarterback Gino Torretta.

Representing the pinnacle of team achievement in college sports, the trophy was the gift of an anonymous donor, who commissioned Tiffany & Co. to craft it from 400 ounces of silver, in honor of NFF founder General Douglas A. MacArthur. It took eight months to make, and the trophy features MacArthur's famous quote: "There is no substitute for victory."