Notre Dame is looking to broaden its football slate, seeking fresh challenges beyond its traditional rivals as the landscape of college athletics shifts.
A new era of matchups
The university has already locked in a home‑and‑home series with Brigham Young University, a partnership that promises marquee games for both programs.
Meanwhile, Texas Tech has thrown its hat into the ring, offering to step in should the Longhorns pull back from their own commitments.
The last time Notre Dame faced a current Big 12 opponent in a regular‑season contest was back in 1999, when it played Kansas, a reminder of how long it has been since the Fighting Irish have tested themselves against the conference's top tier.
Broader ramifications
Texas had tentatively earmarked games for 2028 and 2029, but its athletic director recently voiced reservations, leaving the future of those dates in doubt. If Texas backs out, the ripple effect could reshape scheduling across the Big 12, giving other schools like Texas Tech a chance to claim marquee slots and potentially influence playoff considerations.