SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The football rivalry between Notre Dame and Navy is one of the longest-standing in college football, dating back nearly a century to their first encounter in 1927 in Baltimore, where Notre Dame triumphed with a score of 19-6.
Over the years, despite fierce competition on the field, both institutions cultivated a strong connection. A significant moment in their shared history occurred in 1942 when World War II prompted the U.S. Navy to use Notre Dame’s campus as a training center for the V-7 program. This partnership provided crucial financial support that helped keep Notre Dame, then an all-male institution, afloat during a difficult time.
The annual clashes continued, and notable moments include Navy’s 35-14 victory in 1963, led by Roger Staubach, followed by Notre Dame’s dominant 40-0 win the next year. Notre Dame went on to set a Division I record by winning 43 consecutive games against Navy, a streak that ended in 2007 when Navy won a thrilling triple overtime match 46-44.
The rivalry faced its first interruption in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but resumed in 2021 and has been played annually since. Last season, Notre Dame defeated Navy 42-3 in a game held in Ireland. This year, both teams are ranked in the top 25, with Notre Dame at No. 12 and Navy at No. 24, making the upcoming game significant.
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman expressed enthusiasm about the rivalry, highlighting the impressive progress made by Navy’s program under Coach Brian Newberry. “To play a 6-0 team is much more motivating than facing an 0-6 team,” Freeman noted. He looks forward to the challenge and preparation for the upcoming matchup.
This rivalry reflects mutual respect and gratitude, with Notre Dame honoring Navy’s historical support during the 1940s. The game is set to take place on Saturday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., with kickoff at 12 p.m. EDT. Fans can watch the 97th meeting between the two teams on ABC/ESPN+.