This Friday night, college football will witness a historic event that has never occurred in the sport’s 155-year existence. The College Football Playoff will debut as a 12-team format and will feature its initial games held on campus, enhancing the excitement and fervor that characterize college football.
The playoff begins with an intriguing matchup as the No. 10 seed Indiana travels to face No. 7 seed Notre Dame at Notre Dame Stadium. The winner will earn the chance to compete against No. 2 seed Georgia in the Sugar Bowl on January 1.
Despite being in close proximity, the Hoosiers and Fighting Irish rarely face each other, making this playoff contest notable for both teams. Their last meeting dates back to 1991, and historically, they have played each other just 29 times since their initial game in 1898.
The history between these two programs began with Indiana securing an 11-5 victory in South Bend, while Notre Dame would later shut them out the following year. Over the years, however, matchups have become increasingly rare. Many early games occurred before World War II, and since 1958, they’ve met only once.
One reason for the infrequency of their games is their differing conference affiliations. Notre Dame is an independent team with a challenging national schedule, often prioritizing traditional rivalries. This scheduling dynamic has made it difficult to fit Indiana into their calendar.
Former athletic directors from both schools attempted to organize a game, but their efforts did not come to fruition. Nonetheless, the future looks promising, as Indiana and Notre Dame have agreed to a two-game series that will commence in 2030.
As the teams prepare to face off once again, many eyes will be on the historical significance of the game, the state rivalry, and the potential for an exciting chapter in their storied history.
This matchup not only promises thrilling football but also celebrates the spirit of college athletics, reminding fans of the deep-rooted traditions and rivalries that make college football special. The anticipation surrounding this game signals a hopeful future where these two schools may rekindle their rivalry for years to come.