Notre Dame has locked in its upcoming football slate, confirming a 12‑game schedule for the 2027 season and a near‑complete 11‑game plan for 2028. The lineup blends traditional powerhouses with fresh challenges, promising a busy stretch that will stretch from early autumn to late November.
Legends Trophy Revival
Central to the 2027 lineup is a renewed series with Stanford, a matchup that carries the weight of the Legends Trophy rivalry. The Irish will travel to Stanford Stadium on November 27, 2027, before hosting the Cardinal at Notre Dame Stadium on October 14, 2028. The series, inspired by the 1924 Rose Bowl, adds a narrative layer that goes beyond conference play.
Also new on the horizon is a game against Kent State, the alma mater of the late coach Lou Holtz. The meeting at Notre Dame Stadium on October 2, 2027, marks the 90th distinct FBS program the Irish will have faced, underscoring the breadth of their football heritage. It also adds a milestone, as Notre Dame will have played nine of the current 12 Mid‑American Conference members after this contest.
The Irish have been on a roll against Stanford, having won the last three meetings, the most recent a 42‑20 victory in 2025. That streak adds extra intrigue to the upcoming fixtures, especially as the Legends Trophy rivalry seeks to cement its place in modern college football lore.
Beyond the marquee matchups, the schedule reflects Notre Dame’s ongoing effort to balance tradition with competitive ambition. By weaving in teams from the Mid‑American Conference and reinforcing historic ties, the Irish aim to keep their non‑conference slate both challenging and meaningful for fans and players alike.