USC-Notre Dame Rivalry Future Tied to CFP Changes

The future of the storied USC-Notre Dame football rivalry, played nearly every year since 1926, remains uncertain as the current contract runs through the 2026 season. Both USC coach Lincoln Riley, who cited the rivalry as one reason for joining USC, and Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman have expressed strong interest in its continuation. However, ongoing negotiations are complicated by USC's move to the Big Ten and the uncertain structure of the College Football Playoff (CFP). The Big Ten supports a 16-team playoff with four automatic bids for conference members, a format Riley endorses as it could make nonconference games like the Notre Dame rivalry more feasible. Riley emphasized his commitment to USC's competitive interests, particularly regarding playoff qualification. The decision to continue the rivalry will hinge on balancing tradition with evolving college football dynamics.