The Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Penn State Nittany Lions are set to clash in the Orange Bowl on Thursday, vying for a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship. This matchup is more than just a game—it’s the continuation of a fierce rivalry with a rich history that many fans under 40 may not fully grasp.
A Rivalry Reborn
Notre Dame and Penn State first crossed paths in 1913, with sporadic games following until the series gained momentum in the 1980s. The teams met annually from 1981 to 1992, a period that defined their rivalry. During these 12 years, the Irish struggled against the Nittany Lions, going 4-8. This stretch, filled with hard-fought battles, encapsulated the essence of blue-collar football.
Coaching Legends and Competitive Fire
Legendary coaches Lou Holtz and Joe Paterno personified the rivalry, bringing a competitive edge that fueled animosity between the programs. Both teams vied for national recognition, recruiting dominance, and the hearts of fans along the Midwest and East Coast, intensifying the rivalry.
A Split Path
In 1992, Penn State’s move to the Big Ten led to the series’ hiatus. Joe Paterno often criticized Notre Dame for remaining independent, adding fuel to the fire. The rivalry briefly reignited in 2006-07, with each team securing a dominant home victory, tying the series at 9-9-1.
Renewed Hostilities
Now, nearly two decades later, the rivalry is set to resume on a grand stage. The Orange Bowl marks their 20th meeting, with history and a shot at the national championship on the line. Both programs bring decades of animosity, and fans are eager to see what this next chapter holds.
What drives your passion in this storied rivalry?
