The University of Notre Dame and the University of Southern California announced a four‑game football series that will commence on August 31, 2030, in Los Angeles. The agreement guarantees matchups in 2030, 2031, 2032 and 2033, with the first two contests opening Week 1 of each season.
A historic rivalry reborn
The series marks the latest chapter in a rivalry that dates back more than a century. Notre Dame currently leads the all‑time head‑to‑head record 53‑38‑5, a tally that includes three vacated results. The Irish have also won seven of the last eight meetings, underscoring the competitive balance that has characterized recent years.
The schedule will alternate sites, beginning with a home game for USC in 2030, followed by a Notre Dame home game in 2031, a return to Los Angeles in 2032 and a final showdown in South Bend in 2033. This pattern mirrors the rare hiatuses the series has experienced, notably during World War II and the COVID‑19 pandemic, when the matchups were postponed.
Statements from the sidelines
USC athletic director Jen Cohen emphasized the cultural significance of the renewal, describing the rivalry as "a special place in college football history" and noting that the agreement reflects a shared commitment to preserving tradition while embracing future growth. Marcus Freeman, head coach of the Fighting Irish, echoed the sentiment, stating that the series "offers a unique opportunity to test our program against a premier opponent on a national stage."
The deal also highlights the growing role of media partnerships in college athletics. The games will be streamed on Paramount+, which secured the broadcast rights as part of a broader agreement to showcase marquee college football matchups.
What’s at stake
Beyond the win‑loss column, the series promises to influence recruiting, recruiting classes and the national narrative surrounding both programs. Fans on both coasts will travel to support their teams, creating a vibrant atmosphere that blends the traditions of the Midwest and the West Coast. As the 2030 kickoff approaches, the renewed rivalry is poised to become a marquee event on the college football calendar.