The Notre Dame Fighting Irish and USC Trojans are reigniting talks to restore one of college football's most iconic rivalries. For the first time in 80 years, the two storied programs will not face off during the regular season in 2026—a break that has fans and players alike feeling the void.
This legendary matchup ran uninterrupted from 1946 through 2025, with only the COVID-affected 2020 season causing a pause. The rivalry's continuity was a point of pride for both schools, but scheduling disagreements led to its current hiatus. USC, now a member of the Big Ten, pushed for the annual game to be moved earlier in the season, but Notre Dame initially held firm, wanting to preserve the traditional late-season slot.
In the meantime, Notre Dame has scheduled a series with BYU, while USC will close its season against crosstown rival UCLA. But hope is not lost. According to a report from Los Angeles Times reporter Ryan Kartje on Monday, May 11, the schools have reopened negotiations. "A person familiar with the discussions… told The Times that Notre Dame is now willing to discuss playing the game earlier in the season, which had previously been a sticking point," Kartje wrote. That said, given existing commitments, the earliest the rivalry could resume is the 2030 season.
The Notre Dame-USC series began in 1926, paused during World War II from 1943-45, and has produced some of the most memorable moments in college football history. The Fighting Irish hold a commanding 51-37-5 all-time lead (including three vacated wins), with iconic matchups like the No. 1 vs. No. 3 showdown in 1947 and the No. 1 vs. No. 2 thriller in 1988—both won by top-ranked Notre Dame.
The most recent chapter was written on October 18, 2025, when the 13th-ranked Irish defeated the 21st-ranked Trojans 34-24 at Notre Dame Stadium. Running back Jeremiyah Love stole the show with 230 rushing yards and a touchdown, giving fans a glimpse of the electric energy this rivalry brings.
For now, both sides are working to find common ground. As discussions continue, the college football world waits with bated breath, hoping the "Battle for the Jeweled Shillelagh" will soon return to its rightful place on the schedule. Whether it's in September or November, one thing is clear: the spirit of this rivalry is far from extinguished.