A historic rivalry returns
The long‑awaited renewal of the Notre Dame‑USC football rivalry will officially begin in August 2030, when the two programs meet in Los Angeles for a highly anticipated season‑opening clash. The game is set for August 31, marking the first meeting of the series in more than a decade and reigniting a rivalry that has defined college football’s national narrative for nearly a century.
Following the Los Angeles showdown, the series will travel to South Bend the next year, with the Fighting Irish hosting the Trojans at the iconic Notre Dame Stadium during the opening week of the 2031 season. The shift in venues reflects a carefully negotiated rotation that aims to balance home‑field advantages while preserving the tradition of alternating sites.
The road back to the schedule
Games slated for 2032 and 2033 are planned to fall within the first three weeks of each respective season, though exact dates have yet to be finalized. Both schools have indicated that they will announce the precise kickoff times and broadcast details as soon as logistical considerations are resolved.
The revival comes after a series of failed negotiations to extend the matchup and after Indiana University unexpectedly dropped its own home‑and‑home series with Notre Dame, clearing the way for USC to re‑enter the picture. The rivalry, first contested in 1926, spans 96 meetings, with Notre Dame holding a 53‑38‑5 edge in the all‑time series.
Why the rivalry matters
Beyond the win‑loss record, the contest has been celebrated for its cultural resonance, its role in shaping national rankings, and its occasional influence on the College Football Playoff picture. The two programs together boast more national championships, Heisman Trophy winners and NFL draft picks than any other pair of opponents in the sport, underscoring the stakes each time they meet.