description Notre Dame-USC Rivalry Overview
The Notre Dame-USC rivalry is an American college football series between the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the USC Trojans. The schools first met in 1926, and the matchup became a regular annual fixture after World War II, traditionally played near the end of the regular season at alternating campuses. Its national importance comes from the programs' long records of success and the way the game has often affected championship prospects.
help Notre Dame-USC Rivalry FAQ
When did the Notre Dame-USC football rivalry begin?
The rivalry began on December 4, 1926, when Notre Dame defeated USC 13-12 in Los Angeles. The matchup later became one of college football's best-known intersectional rivalries. [Notre Dame history](https://scholastic.nd.edu/issues/notre-dame-football-a-short-history/)
Why is Notre Dame-USC called an intersectional rivalry?
Notre Dame is based in South Bend, Indiana, while USC is based in Los Angeles, California, so the series connected major programs from opposite sides of the United States. The schools traditionally alternated home games between Notre Dame Stadium and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
What trophy is associated with the Notre Dame-USC game?
The winner traditionally receives the Jeweled Shillelagh, a decorated Irish-style club that represents the rivalry. It is one of the most recognizable trophy traditions in college football.
Have Notre Dame and USC ever stopped playing each other?
The series was interrupted during the Second World War and again in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Outside those interruptions, the schools built a remarkably regular schedule beginning in 1926.
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