Is the USC vs. Notre Dame Rivalry Making a Comeback? Latest on Negotiations
USC and Notre Dame Discuss Resuming Rivalry After Six-Month Standstill
Six months after the historic college football rivalry between USC and Notre Dame faced a halt, both universities are reportedly engaged in active discussions to revive the series. Sources indicate that Notre Dame has shown willingness to negotiate playing the game earlier in the season, a significant departure from their previous stance.
Although timelines for the revival remain uncertain, there is optimism among those familiar with the negotiations that an agreement could be reached. The shifting tone follows a year of stalled talks, where both institutions held firm on differing preferences for the matchup’s schedule. USC aimed to move the game to the beginning of the season, aligning it with other nonconference games, while Notre Dame desired to retain the traditional late-season slot.
Public comments highlighted the tensions, especially when Notre Dame athletic director Pete Bevacqua expressed concerns last May about the rivalry’s future due to USC’s reluctance to proceed.
The two teams nearly reached an agreement at the close of last season, with USC demonstrating a willingness to maintain the rivalry in its conventional format. However, complications arose when USC learned of a deal between Notre Dame and the College Football Playoff that included a guaranteed playoff berth for the Irish if they finished in the top 12 of rankings, which USC labeled a "material advantage." Subsequent efforts by USC to negotiate terms in December were met with rejection, as Notre Dame opted to schedule a new series with Brigham Young.
USC Coach Lincoln Riley expressed frustration over the situation, asserting that had Notre Dame followed through on their promises, the teams would have met on the field over the next two years.
While the rivalry was expected to remain dormant for a while, the renewed discussions raise hopes for its return, underscoring the financial incentive at play for both institutions. Both USC and Notre Dame are aware that the allure and potential revenue of this storied matchup make its revival a priority.
As talks recommence, many are keeping a close eye on the developments, hopeful that a conclusion will be reached that benefits both teams and their passionate fanbases.
