Notre Dame vs USC Rivalry Faces Uncertain Future After 2024 Showdown

The famed Notre Dame vs USC football rivalry is set for another chapter this Saturday. The game will be played at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. This marks the 93rd meeting between these two historic programs. It could also be the last scheduled game for the foreseeable future.

Conference realignment is the primary reason for the potential hiatus. According to reports from the Associated Press, future Big Ten scheduling commitments for USC are a major factor. The annual matchup has been a college football staple since 1926, interrupted only by the 2020 pandemic season.

Coaches and Fans Lament Potential End of Historic Series

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman publicly addressed the situation. He expressed a strong desire to see the rivalry continue. Freeman acknowledged the complex institutional decisions behind the scheduling conflict.

He emphasized the game’s deep significance to his university. The Fighting Irish lead the all-time series 50-37-5. A final scheduled matchup adds immense weight to this year’s contest for both teams and their passionate fan bases.

Playoff Implications Heighten the Finale’s Stakes

The game carries major College Football Playoff consequences. Notre Dame, ranked 13th, has rallied from a slow start with a four-game winning streak. A victory over a ranked opponent is crucial for their postseason resume.

No. 20 USC also needs this win to bolster its own playoff hopes. The Trojans face a tough remaining schedule against other ranked opponents. A loss in South Bend would severely damage their chances of making the expanded 12-team field. This elevates the game beyond just rivalry sentiment.

This weekend’s Notre Dame vs USC clash is more than just another game. It represents the potential end of an era and a critical juncture for both teams’ seasons. The outcome will resonate through the college football landscape for years to come.

Thought you’d like to know

Why might the Notre Dame vs USC rivalry end?

The rivalry is threatened by USC’s move to the Big Ten conference. Their new conference schedule creates significant logistical challenges. This makes continuing the annual non-conference game difficult.

What is the all-time record in the series?

Notre Dame holds a commanding lead in the series history. The Fighting Irish have won 50 games to USC’s 37. There have also been five ties between the two programs.

What are the playoff rankings for each team?

Notre Dame enters the game ranked 13th in the nation. USC is currently positioned at number 20. Both teams are in contention for the new 12-team College Football Playoff.

How can I watch the Notre Dame vs USC game?

The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday. It will be broadcast nationally on NBC. The game will also be available for streaming on Peacock.

When did this football rivalry begin?

The Notre Dame vs USC rivalry began nearly a century ago. The first game was played in 1926. It has been played annually ever since, with the sole exception of the 2020 season.