Jeremiyah Love Leads Notre Dame’s Dominant Win over Uncertain USC Rivalry

Notre Dame faced USC in a compelling college football matchup, marking the 96th meeting between these two storied programs. Despite uncertainties surrounding the future of this rivalry, both teams showcased their competitive spirit on a rainy Saturday night in South Bend.

Notre Dame’s Strong Performance

Ranked 13th, Notre Dame secured a 34–24 victory over 20th-ranked USC. This win was crucial for Notre Dame, which had suffered two earlier losses and needed to keep its College Football Playoff hopes alive.

Jeremiyah Love’s Record-Setting Game

• Jeremiyah Love ran for 228 yards, the sixth-highest single-game total in Notre Dame history.
• This performance marked the most rushing yards ever by a Fighting Irish player at Notre Dame Stadium.
• Love combined for 265 all-purpose yards, alongside teammate Jadarian Price, who added 209 total yards.
• Price also returned a kickoff for a touchdown, contributing to a dominant rushing attack.

Game Statistics and Context

The elements played a significant role, with rain affecting the game’s dynamics. Notre Dame’s ground game was overpowering, accumulating 306 rushing yards to USC’s 68. This stark contrast underscored the physical superiority of the Fighting Irish.

Head coach Marcus Freeman emphasized the importance of the rivalry, recalling how such games resonate in the hearts of players and fans alike. The victory has placed Notre Dame in a favorable position to potentially contend for a playoff spot, especially as five teams ranked above them suffered defeats over the weekend.

USC’s Struggles

USC, now standing at 5–2, faces challenges in maintaining their playoff aspirations. The Trojans must navigate the remaining games, including a critical matchup against Oregon on November 22. Their chances of an automatic bid hinge on not only winning out but also overcoming their historical struggles in the Midwest.

Looking Forward to the Rivalry’s Future

Despite the unpredictability surrounding future meetings, both teams understand the significance of this rivalry. Notre Dame, which has won three straight against USC and seven of the last eight matchups, aims to continue this historic tradition. The hope remains that these programs will find ways to compete, preserving a cherished element of college football.

Ultimately, as the rivalry evolves, the competitive fire and historical context continue to fuel encounters between these two football powerhouses. The physical attributes displayed by both teams suggest that the rivalry will remain significant in the years to come.