Notre Dame vs. USC Showdown Becomes Definitive College Football Playoff Elimination Game

The stakes for one of college football’s oldest rivalries have never been higher. The 13th-ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish host the 20th-ranked USC Trojans this Saturday in South Bend. This high-profile matchup is now being labeled a definitive College Football Playoff elimination game.

Both teams carry significant playoff aspirations into the weekend. According to ESPN, the outcome will dramatically reshape the national landscape for the new 12-team format.

Why This Game is a Must-Win for Notre Dame

Notre Dame cannot afford a third loss this season. The Fighting Irish started the year with two tough losses against top-ranked opponents. They have since rallied with four dominant wins.

Their independent status adds immense pressure. Without a conference championship game to win, their path to the playoff relies on a strong final record. ESPN analyst Heather Dinich stated a win gives them a 50% chance to reach the playoff.

USC Aims to Legitimize Its Own Playoff Hopes

USC enters the game with a 5-1 record. Their sole loss was a last-second defeat on the road. A victory against a ranked Notre Dame team would be a major statement.

The Trojans are looking to prove their consistency. A win solidifies their position as a serious playoff contender. It would be a signature victory for their resume.

This is the final scheduled meeting between these historic rivals. Conference realignment and new scheduling models have paused the long-running series. This adds another layer of significance to an already critical game.

The result of this pivotal matchup will send one team’s playoff hopes soaring and effectively end the other’s. This high-stakes clash truly is a College Football Playoff elimination game for two of the sport’s most iconic programs.

Dropping this nugget your way

Why is this game so important for Notre Dame’s playoff chances?

Notre Dame already has two losses. A third loss would almost certainly eliminate them from playoff contention, especially as an independent without a conference title to fall back on.

What does USC need to prove in this game?

USC needs a signature win against a highly-ranked opponent. Beating Notre Dame on the road would legitimize their record and strengthen their playoff resume significantly.

How has Notre Dame performed since their 0-2 start?

Notre Dame has won four consecutive games. They have outscored their opponents 176 to 57 during this dominant winning streak.

Is this the last time Notre Dame and USC will play each other?

Due to conference realignment, this is the last currently scheduled game between the two rivals. The future of the series is now uncertain.

Where can viewers watch the Notre Dame vs. USC game?

The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday. It will be broadcast on NBC and its streaming service, Peacock.