UPDATE: In a heart-wrenching defeat, the USC Trojans fell to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 34-24 on October 14, 2023, amid torrential rain at Notre Dame Stadium. This loss not only dampens USC’s hopes for a College Football Playoff bid but also casts a shadow over the future of one of college football’s most storied rivalries.
As dark clouds loomed over South Bend, Indiana, fans braced for a thrilling contest, but the weather turned ominous. Heavy rain poured down, creating a chaotic atmosphere for both teams. This game could mark the end of a 99-year rivalry, with both schools expressing a desire to continue the tradition, pending future agreements.
The game took a turn when Notre Dame’s kicker missed a crucial 31-yard field goal in the fourth quarter. With momentum swinging, USC quarterback Jayden Maiava connected with wide receiver Makai Lemon for a stunning 42-yard gain, igniting hopes of a comeback.
However, disaster struck moments later. In a pivotal moment, Coach Lincoln Riley opted for a daring trick play that quickly unraveled. Lemon, attempting an end-around, was swarmed by the Notre Dame defense, resulting in a costly turnover. The ball was stripped, and within seven plays, Notre Dame’s quarterback C.J. Carr secured victory with a one-yard touchdown run.
This defeat leaves USC’s aspirations for the playoffs hanging by a thread, as they now face mounting pressure to rebound in upcoming games. The emotional weight of this loss is palpable, especially if it signifies the end of an era between these two iconic programs.
As fans and players alike process this setback, the future of the rivalry remains uncertain. Both USC and Notre Dame officials have indicated a willingness to negotiate terms to keep the tradition alive, but time will tell if they can reach an agreement.
For now, all eyes will be on the Trojans as they work to regroup and refocus, with their next game looming on the horizon. The stakes have never been higher, and the urgency is palpable—this is a season-defining moment for USC football.
