USC-Notre Dame series extension uncertain

The annual rivalry matchup between USC and Notre Dame could be in jeopardy.

The programs have been unable to agree on an extension of the rivalry beyond the 2025 season, according to Sports Illustrated's Pat Forde. Their final scheduled matchup is in October.

USC has offered a one-year extension to play in Los Angeles next season, sources told Forde. However, Notre Dame is seeking a long-term deal.

"I think Southern Cal and Notre Dame should play every year for as long as college football is played, and SC knows that's how we feel," Notre Dame athletic director Pete Bevacqua said Monday.

USC is reluctant to sign a long-term deal because of uncertainty surrounding the College Football Playoff, as well as increased travel due to the school's move from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten, per Forde. But the Trojans are interested in preserving the rivalry game. They've reportedly brought up the idea of moving the matchup to a season-opening place on the schedule.

"We want the USC-Notre Dame rivalry to continue, which is why we offered an extension of our agreement," USC associate athletic director Cody Worsham said. "It's a special game to our fans and our institution. We will continue to work with Notre Dame on scheduling future games."

The storied programs have played each other 95 times since 1926, with Notre Dame leading the all-time series 50-37-5. The Trojans have vacated one win, while the Fighting Irish have vacated two. Notre Dame won the 2024 meeting 49-35.