The season’s final game in South Bend for “The Greatest Intersectional Rivalry” in college football may take place when Notre Dame hosts USC on October 18th for PrimeTime kickoff.

In the world of college football, rivalries hold a special place, weaving together generations of fans, players, and coaches. These contests transcend mere games; they become part of the fabric of a school’s history, defined by passion, tradition, and unforgettable moments. Among the most storied rivalries in college football history is the clash between Notre Dame and USC, often hailed as “The Greatest Intersectional Rivalry.”

The rivalry, rich in history, has long been a fixture of college football lore. With the stakes high, emotions running even higher, and pride on the line, every match-up between these two schools is more than just a game – it’s a spectacle that grips fans and players alike. In 2025, this rivalry takes on an even more significant meaning as it is poised to mark the season’s final game in South Bend, with Notre Dame hosting USC on October 18th in a PrimeTime kickoff. The game promises to be a monumental occasion, capping off a chapter in this historic rivalry and setting the stage for the future of college football.

To understand the intensity of the Notre Dame-USC rivalry, one must first appreciate the geographical and historical context. Notre Dame, located in South Bend, Indiana, and USC, situated in Los Angeles, California, represent two of the most prestigious and successful programs in the history of college football. Despite their geographic distance, these two schools share a fierce rivalry that dates back to 1926, a rivalry that has spanned nearly a century, with moments of glory, heartbreak, and drama.

In the early years, both teams were powerhouses in the sport, with Notre Dame becoming a symbol of excellence under the leadership of coaches like Knute Rockne, and USC establishing itself as a dominant force on the West Coast. Their first meeting in 1926 was a seminal moment in the development of the rivalry, a game that ended in a 7-7 tie but laid the foundation for decades of competition. From that point on, every encounter between the two teams became a significant event, with both schools trying to outdo one another in terms of talent, coaching, and tradition.

Throughout the years, the rivalry has been defined by high stakes. National championships, Rose Bowls, and Heisman Trophy winners have often been on the line when these two teams meet. Notable games such as the 1974 matchup, when USC won 55-24 on their way to a national title, and the 2005 clash, in which USC triumphed 34-31 in one of the most dramatic games in college football history, have cemented the rivalry as one of the greatest in sports.

As college football entered the 21st century, the rivalry between Notre Dame and USC remained as fierce as ever. With both schools continuing to produce high-level talent and maintain competitive teams, the intensity of each matchup only grew. The games often held national implications, with the winner emerging as a contender for a major bowl game or a shot at the national title.

One of the most memorable recent games in the rivalry came in 2018 when Notre Dame, led by quarterback Ian Book, defeated USC 24-17 in Los Angeles to remain undefeated. The game was a testament to the fighting spirit of the Irish and further fueled the fire of this legendary rivalry. USC, despite some down years, has remained a prominent figure in college football, and each game against Notre Dame is a chance for redemption, pride, and a statement of dominance on the national stage.

The clash between Notre Dame and USC also represents a meeting of two iconic coaching legacies. Notre Dame has long been synonymous with legendary coaches like Rockne, Ara Parseghian, Lou Holtz, and Brian Kelly, while USC’s coaching history includes figures such as Howard Jones, John McKay, Pete Carroll, and, in recent years, Lincoln Riley. These coaching dynasties have helped shape the rivalry, with each coach adding his own unique flair and competitive edge to the games.

As the calendar turns to 2025, the rivalry between Notre Dame and USC is poised for another chapter, but this time with a twist. The October 18th game will be the season’s final contest in South Bend, marking a potentially symbolic end to a significant era. The decision to make this game the final one of the season in South Bend comes amidst an ever-evolving landscape in college football, with conference realignment and changes in scheduling formats becoming more prominent in recent years. These changes have led to questions about the future of this rivalry, particularly in terms of how often these two historic programs will meet in the coming years.

The potential for this to be the last game between these two teams in South Bend adds a layer of gravity to the matchup. The Irish and the Trojans will play not only for the pride of their programs but also to honor the history and tradition that have defined this rivalry for almost a century. The game will undoubtedly be a spectacle, with fans from both sides flooding into Notre Dame Stadium, eager to witness what could be the final intersectional showdown between these two teams on the Irish’s home turf.

The fact that the game will take place under the lights of a PrimeTime kickoff only enhances its significance. PrimeTime games bring an additional level of visibility, with national audiences tuning in to watch these high-profile matchups. The stakes are always high when two top-tier teams face off, but in this case, the symbolism of the occasion will add a layer of emotion and anticipation. Fans will be looking for a game that lives up to the rich history of the rivalry, one that will be remembered for years to come.

In any great rivalry, the players are the heart and soul of the game. In 2025, both Notre Dame and USC will feature talent that can sway the outcome of the game in an instant. For Notre Dame, players like quarterback Sam Hartman, a veteran with poise and experience, will be crucial in leading the offense. Hartman, who has seen his fair share of big games, will have the pressure of guiding his team through one of the most intense rivalries in the sport. His leadership, accuracy, and ability to make plays in critical moments will be key to Notre Dame’s chances of success.

On the other side, USC boasts a talented roster under the direction of head coach Lincoln Riley, known for his offensive prowess. Quarterback Caleb Williams, a potential Heisman Trophy candidate, will be one of the most talked-about players in the game. Williams’ ability to make plays with his arm and legs has already earned him national recognition, and his performance in this high-stakes game could propel him to even greater heights. USC will look to capitalize on Williams’ playmaking ability to disrupt Notre Dame’s defense and come away with a crucial victory.

Both teams will also feature strong defenses, and players like Notre Dame’s defensive lineman Rylie Mills and USC’s cornerback Ceyair Wright will be essential in containing the opposing offenses. The game could very well come down to which defense can step up and make the pivotal plays when it matters most.

The Notre Dame-USC rivalry is more than just a series of football games; it is a tradition that has transcended generations. For fans, players, and coaches alike, each game represents something much greater than a win or loss. It is a battle for pride, history, and the honor of one of college football’s most legendary matchups.

As the final game in South Bend looms large, the question of what the future holds for the rivalry becomes ever more pressing. Will the two schools continue to meet with the same frequency? Will the spirit of the rivalry evolve with the changing landscape of college football? Regardless of the answers, the 2025 game will undoubtedly be a fitting tribute to the rivalry’s storied past.

For fans, this game will be a chance to reflect on the history of the rivalry and celebrate the moments that have made Notre Dame vs. USC one of the greatest rivalries in all of sports. The final game in South Bend will be a moment for both sides to acknowledge the rich history that has defined this intersectional clash and honor the athletes and coaches who have made this rivalry so special.

The Notre Dame-USC rivalry is more than just a rivalry. It is a testament to the power of tradition, pride, and passion in college football. As the two teams prepare to face off on October 18th for what could be the final time in South Bend, the excitement and anticipation will be palpable. For both teams, the stakes are high, and the chance to add another unforgettable chapter to this historic rivalry is one that will not be taken lightly.

As fans pack into Notre Dame Stadium, with the echoes of decades of clashes reverberating through the air, one thing will be clear: the 2025 matchup between Notre Dame and USC will be a fitting conclusion to the rivalry’s legacy in South Bend, no matter what happens on the field. The Greatest Intersectional Rivalry will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of college football fans everywhere, and the October 18th game will undoubtedly be a spectacle for the ages.