The annual meeting between the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and USC Trojans could be in jeopardy. Both schools are not in the same conference, and it seems the rivalry could reach a standstill if both teams aren't careful.
According to Fighting Irish AD Pete Bevacqua, the intent is to keep the series moving. For how long, though, is unclear.
“I think we’ll do a short-term extension,” Bevacqua told "The Echoes" podcast. "And then, quite frankly, there might be a gap or two in that series and then pick it back up.”
Bevacqua's comments are oddly different than coach Marcus Freeman's, as he wants to see the rivalry stick around for as long as possible.
And without delays.
"I know our leadership administration and their leadership administration are talking to try to find a way to extend this rivalry,” Freeman said in October. “I’m confident it will be extended. But it’s not—I don’t have any proof that it’s being extended right now, but I know there’s discussions and hopefully we can continue this great rivalry.”
Freeman didn't stop there, re-emphasizing the importance of perserving the history of college football by keeping the rivalry afloat.
"I’m confident it will be extended," Freeman said. "But it’s not—I don’t have any proof that it’s being extended right now, but I know there’s discussions and hopefully we can continue this great rivalry.”
Trojans coach Lincoln Riley agrees with Freeman.
"I love it," Riley said. "I hope it continues. Hopefully we can find a way to get that done where it makes sense for both sides and not just one…I hope I’m head coach at USC for a long time and I hope every single year we’re playing this game."
Let's hope both sides get what they desire, as the sport is ultimately better off when both teams are good.
The Fighting Irish beat the Trojans in October in South Bend, 34-24, to extend their series streak to three.