Report: The long-standing rivalry between Notre Dame football and USC may soon come to
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the USC Trojans share one of the most storied rivalries in college football history. Since their first meeting in 1926, this intersectional clash has captivated fans with its blend of tradition, talent, and high stakes. The annual game, often played on the Saturday following Thanksgiving or in mid-October, has become a cornerstone of the college football calendar. Both programs boast rich histories, with numerous national championships, Heisman Trophy winners, and All-Americans. The rivalry is symbolized by the Jeweled Shillelagh, a trophy awarded to the winner each year.SI+3Los Angeles Times+3Ticketmaster Blog+3One Foot Down+4Wikipedia+4Ticketmaster Blog+4
The rivalry’s significance extends beyond the gridiron. It represents the intersection of two of the most prestigious institutions in college sports: Notre Dame, with its Catholic heritage and independent status, and USC, a powerhouse in the Pac-12 and now the Big Ten. Over the decades, the games have often had national championship implications, with both teams frequently ranked among the top in the country. Iconic moments, such as USC’s dramatic 55-24 comeback in 1974 and Notre Dame’s 49-19 victory in the “Green Jersey Game” of 1977, have etched this rivalry into the annals of college football lore. uhnd.com
In recent years, the landscape of college football has undergone significant changes. The expansion of the College Football Playoff (CFP) and conference realignment have altered scheduling dynamics. USC’s decision to join the Big Ten Conference in 2025 has introduced new challenges and considerations. Travel demands, increased competition, and the quest for optimal playoff positioning have led to discussions about the future of the Notre Dame-USC rivalry.New York Poston3.com
USC Athletic Director Jennifer Cohen acknowledged the importance of the series but expressed uncertainty about its continuation beyond the 2026 season. She emphasized the need to evaluate what’s best for student-athletes and the program, given the changing landscape of college football. SI
Head coach Lincoln Riley echoed similar sentiments, noting that while the rivalry holds sentimental value, the evolving playoff structure and conference commitments might necessitate difficult decisions regarding scheduling. on3.com+1SI+1
Should the rivalry come to an end, its impact would be felt across the college football community. For Notre Dame, the loss of a marquee non-conference opponent would necessitate adjustments in scheduling to maintain national relevance. For USC, the absence of a traditional powerhouse like Notre Dame could affect the team’s strength of schedule and potential playoff positioning.
Beyond the logistical and competitive aspects, the end of the rivalry would mark the conclusion of a significant chapter in college football history. Generations of fans have grown up with the anticipation of this annual showdown, and its loss would be a blow to the sport’s rich tapestry of traditions.
