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On Monday, August 3, the USC Trojans officially announced that their long-standing rivalry with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish will be revived in 2030, with four matchups currently on the calendar. The initial game is set for the opening week of the 2030 season at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, followed by a road contest in South Bend, Indiana, in 2031. While specific dates for the 2032 and 2033 meetings remain undecided, they are slated to occur within the first three weeks of their respective seasons, according to USC's official release.
USC Athletic Director Jen Cohen shared her enthusiasm about extending the series, emphasizing the rivalry's deep roots in college football history. "USC's historic rivalry with Notre Dame holds a special place in the history of college football, and we are happy to resume a series that means so much to the entire Trojan Family," Cohen stated. She also highlighted the strategic importance of scheduling the game early in the season, noting that it aligns with the Trojans' Big Ten commitments and prioritizes the well-being of student-athletes. "It remains important for us to play this game early in the season, as it allows us to schedule competitively with our Big Ten peers and takes into account the health and best interests of our student-athletes and program," she added.
Key Analysis
The resumption of this rivalry comes after a period of tension, particularly fueled by comments from USC head coach Lincoln Riley during Big Ten Media Days. Riley expressed his desire to play the game, stating, "Nothing has changed from my vantage point. We want to play the game, I want to play the game, we would be playing the game had some things come true that were said." These remarks added fuel to the fire, with both programs trading blame for the hiatus. Now, it appears Riley's wish will be granted starting in 2030.
The shift of the rivalry to September marks a significant change from its traditional late-season slot. This adjustment is likely influenced by the expanded College Football Playoff and USC's move to the Big Ten. For the Trojans, this early-season clash provides a high-stakes test before conference play, offering both an opportunity and a risk. A strong performance could bolster their resume, while a loss might set them back. Meanwhile, both USC and Notre Dame enter the 2026 season with playoff aspirations, and barring a postseason meeting, fans will have to wait until 2030 for the next chapter in this storied rivalry.