The University of Notre Dame and the University of Southern California have rekindled one of college football’s most storied rivalries with a new four‑game home‑and‑home agreement that will run through the early 2030s.
Games are slated to open on August 31, 2030, at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, followed by a return trip to Notre Dame’s campus on August 30, 2031. The subsequent matchups will be played in the first weeks of the 2032 and 2033 seasons, ensuring early‑season confrontations that promise high stakes and travel excitement.
The series revives a rivalry that dates back to 1926 and has seen the two programs meet nearly every year since 1946, barring interruptions during World War II and the 2020 pandemic. Notre Dame currently leads the all‑time head‑to‑head record 53‑38‑5, a testament to decades of competitive balance.
A Milestone in College Football
Beyond the win‑loss ledger, the matchup carries cultural weight: the contest is contested for the Jeweled Shillelagh Trophy, a prize introduced in 1952 that features green shamrocks for Notre Dame victories and ruby‑studded Trojan heads for USC. The trophy’s symbolism underscores the blend of tradition and regional pride that defines the rivalry.
Scheduling Challenges and Big Ten Realignment
USC’s recent move to the Big Ten, completed in 2024, introduced scheduling complexities that threatened the continuation of the series. Athletic director Jen Cohen highlighted the importance of locking in early‑season slots to preserve competitive integrity and player health, noting that the rivalry’s intensity demands a fresh start each year.
The agreement also reflects broader conference realignment trends, as the Big Ten seeks to balance its expanding footprint with historic non‑conference rivalries. By committing to the series, both schools signal a willingness to preserve marquee matchups even as conference landscapes shift.
Fans can look forward to a renewed chapter of travel, tailgating, and high‑octane play, with each game expected to draw national attention and contribute to the rich tapestry of college football history.