The storied football rivalry between the University of Notre Dame and the University of Southern California has entered a second hiatus after more than eight decades of intermittent competition.
A historic pause
The pause, announced recently, marks the second time in 80 years that the series has been interrupted, the first occurring during World War II when the two schools suspended play for three years.
USC had been pushing to shift the traditional late‑season matchup to an earlier slot in the calendar, a proposal that Notre Dame rejected, citing tradition and competitive balance.
In the meantime, Notre Dame has secured a new series with BYU, while USC plans to close its season against UCLA, signaling a reshuffling of non‑conference opponents.
Despite the recent breakdown, both schools have reopened negotiations, with Notre Dame indicating a willingness to discuss playing the game earlier in the season, though a reunion may not happen until the 2030 schedule.
The rivalry’s all‑time record favors the Fighting Irish, who lead 51‑37‑5, including three vacated wins, and has featured marquee moments such as a No. 1 versus No. 3 showdown in 1947 and a No. 1 versus No. 2 clash in 1988.
The most recent encounter, a 34‑24 Irish victory on Oct. 18, 2025 at Notre Dame Stadium, was highlighted by Jeremiyah Love’s 230‑yard rushing performance that helped the 13th‑ranked Irish defeat the 21st‑ranked Trojans.
Coverage of the developments has been led by journalist Ryan Kartje, who has been tracking the behind‑the‑scenes talks and the broader implications for college football scheduling.