USC head coach Lincoln Riley expressed satisfaction about the return of the Trojans’ annual rivalry game with Notre Dame. The schools have agreed to a series starting in 2030 that will occur during Week 1 of the football season at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. In the following year, the teams will face off in Week 1 at Notre Dame Stadium. The 2032 and 2033 games are scheduled for Weeks 1 through 3 of the season.
Riley stated, “We felt like the best thing for our program was to play this game early in the season.” He emphasized the need to compete within a traditional nonconference timeframe due to their obligations within their conference schedule. This approach allows USC to maintain flexibility while competing in the Big Ten.
While Riley has faced criticism for the rivalry series’ lapse, he highlighted the difficulty of balancing a demanding Big Ten lineup with Notre Dame’s independent scheduling, which allows them easier matchups to bolster their College Football Playoff prospects.
The agreement underscores the importance both schools place on the rivalry. Historically, USC holds a 37-53-5 record against Notre Dame, not counting the vacated 2005 victory due to NCAA sanctions.
Riley is optimistic, saying, “I think this benefits everyone. USC, Notre Dame, and college football at large. It’s crucial for our fan base, alumni, and former players and coaches.”
Iliana Limón Romero, assistant managing editor for Sports, and Ryan Kartje, USC beat writer at the Los Angeles Times, contributed to this report.
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