In a significant move for college football, Notre Dame and Clemson have announced a 12-year home-and-home series beginning in 2027. The agreement ensures annual matchups between these two storied programs through 2038, aiming to rekindle a budding rivalry and bring stability to a sport undergoing rapid changes.One Foot Down
This long-term scheduling commitment is Notre Dame’s first of its kind since 2002, reflecting a strategic effort to enhance its football schedule with high-profile opponents. The series builds upon existing games previously arranged under Notre Dame’s scheduling agreement with the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), which had slated meetings between the Irish and Tigers in 2027, 2028, 2031, 2034, and 2037. The new deal adds annual contests, alternating between Notre Dame Stadium and Clemson’s Memorial Stadium.The Tiger+2One Foot Down+2The Clemson Insider+2
Notre Dame Athletic Director Pete Bevacqua expressed enthusiasm about the agreement, stating, “We strive to consistently create a football schedule that positions us for success in the College Football Playoff, and that goal requires us to form historic partnerships like this one with Clemson. This rivalry has already produced some of the most memorable moments in recent college football history, and our fans … .” One Foot Down
Clemson Athletic Director Graham Neff echoed this sentiment, highlighting the national appeal of the games: “Even in just the last decade … . We have immense excitement for the creation … .” One Foot Down
The rivalry between Notre Dame and Clemson has intensified in recent years, with the teams meeting eight times, including high-stakes games in the College Football Playoff and the ACC Championship. Clemson leads the all-time series 5–3, but Notre Dame’s victories in 2020 and 2022 have added competitive balance to the matchup. Notably, their 2020 regular-season meeting was a double-overtime thriller that drew significant national attention. The Clemson Insider+1TigerNet.com+1
This scheduling agreement comes at a time when college football is experiencing significant shifts, with conference realignments and the expansion of the College Football Playoff. By committing to an annual series, Notre Dame and Clemson aim to preserve traditional rivalries and provide fans with consistent, high-quality matchups.One Foot Down
The series is expected to have substantial implications for both programs, offering opportunities for marquee victories that can bolster playoff resumes. Additionally, the games are anticipated to draw large television audiences, benefiting both schools and the broader college football landscape.One Foot Down
As the sport continues to evolve, the Notre Dame-Clemson series stands as a testament to the enduring value of traditional rivalries and the importance of strategic scheduling in maintaining the integrity and appeal of college football.
