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Notre Dame Football Biggest Rivals

Notre Dame Football Biggest Rivals

2 min read 25-11-2024
Notre Dame Football Biggest Rivals

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team has a rich history in the NCAA, with a loyal fan base and a plethora of rivalries that have been forged over the years. In this article, we'll delve into the biggest rivals of the Notre Dame football team, exploring the history and significance of each rivalry.

The USC Trojans: A Century-Old Rivalry

The rivalry between Notre Dame and the University of Southern California (USC) is considered one of the most iconic in college football. The two teams first met in 1926, and since then, they have clashed 91 times, with Notre Dame holding a slight edge with 47 wins to USC's 43. This rivalry is often referred to as the "Greatest Intersectional Rivalry in College Football."

The Michigan Wolverines: A Battle for Supremacy

Notre Dame's rivalry with the University of Michigan is another long-standing and intense one. The two teams have been facing off since 1887, with Notre Dame leading the series 18-17-1. This rivalry is significant not only because of the teams' proximity to each other but also due to their academic and athletic excellence.

The Stanford Cardinal: A Rivalry Born Out of Respect

The rivalry between Notre Dame and Stanford University may not be as old as the others, but it has grown in intensity over the years. The two teams first met in 1925, and since then, they have clashed 34 times, with Notre Dame holding a slight edge with 20 wins to Stanford's 13. This rivalry is built on mutual respect, as both teams are known for their academic excellence and athletic prowess.

The Navy Midshipmen: A Rivalry Steeped in History

Notre Dame's rivalry with the United States Naval Academy is one of the most unique and historic in college football. The two teams have been facing off since 1927, with Notre Dame leading the series 77-13-1. This rivalry is significant not only because of the teams' on-field battles but also due to the rich history and tradition of the Naval Academy.

Conclusion

Notre Dame's biggest rivals are a testament to the team's rich history and tradition of excellence in college football. From the intense battles with USC to the respectful rivalry with Stanford, each matchup is steeped in history and significance. As the Fighting Irish continue to take the field, these rivalries will only continue to grow in intensity and importance.