Overview
- Both schools issued a joint statement confirming no 2026 matchup and saying they will work to revive the series.
- Talks broke down over timing, with USC proposing November in Los Angeles and then a Week Zero date that Notre Dame declined, according to reports.
- Reports describe Notre Dame’s expected advantage under a new CFP setup that would grant the Irish an automatic berth if ranked in the top 12 beginning in 2026.
- Notre Dame quickly announced BYU to fill its 2026 slot, while USC explores alternative nonconference options, including a potential Week Zero home game at the Coliseum.
- Reaction is divided: Matt Leinart defended USC’s approach, while Carson Palmer and Pete Carroll criticized stepping away from a long-running matchup.