A Rivalry That’s Been on the Table for Years
The notion of scheduling Notre Dame and Brigham Young University for a football showdown every season has been floated in media circles and by some fans. The idea sounds appealing on the surface, but the reality is more nuanced. The author of this piece argues that an annual meeting would be unnecessary and could even dilute the special nature of the occasional contests that do occur.
A Brief History of the Series
Notre Dame and BYU have met nine times, with the Fighting Irish holding a 7‑2 edge in the series. The most recent BYU victory came in 2004, a game remembered by many for the coaching tenure of Ty Willingham, who led the Cougars to that win. After that era, BYU experimented with an independent schedule before eventually joining the Big 12, a move that reshaped its football landscape.
The Road to the Big 12 and Playoff Fallout
When the College Football Playoff committee released its rankings last season, Notre Dame was left out in favor of Alabama, a decision that sparked frustration on both campuses. The disappointment was compounded when USC, a traditional rival, opted out of its own rivalry with Notre Dame, paving the way for BYU to be slotted into the 2026 schedule. Some commentators seized the moment to propose making the Notre Dame‑BYU matchup an annual event, but the author remains skeptical of that proposition.
Why an Annual Game Doesn’t Make Sense
Notre Dame already boasts a collection of storied rivalries that command the attention of its fan base. Adding another permanent opponent could dilute the significance of those existing matchups. Moreover, while BYU supporters might welcome a yearly contest, the same enthusiasm does not appear to be shared by most Notre Dame fans, who tend to view the Cougars as a pleasant occasional opponent rather than a top‑tier rival. The author suggests that preserving a good relationship between the programs while allowing them to meet only occasionally is the most balanced path forward.
Looking Ahead
The conversation about scheduling will likely continue, especially as both schools navigate conference realignments and playoff aspirations. For now, the consensus among analysts and many fans is that the occasional, high‑stakes meeting carries more intrigue than a forced annual fixture. By keeping the door open for future meetings while respecting each program’s unique rivalries, college football can maintain the excitement that makes these games special.