Few programs in college football can rival the history and prestige of Notre Dame. Over the decades, the Fighting Irish have participated in countless games that have defined the sport and cemented their place in football lore.
So, as Notre Dame looks to capture another National Championship against Ohio State, let’s take a look back at some of the greatest games in the school’s history.
“A Clash for the Ages” vs. Michigan State
Known as “The Game of the Century,” Notre Dame and Michigan State faced off in an epic showdown between unbeaten teams back in 1966. The 10-10 tie, controversial for its ending strategy, highlighted Ara Parseghian’s tactical genius and played a pivotal role in Notre Dame’s national championship run.
Battling USC in “The Snow Bowl”
In a game marked by heavy snowfall, Notre Dame overcame USC 23-17 in South Bend in 1957. Paul Hornung’s gritty performance in adverse conditions helped seal this unforgettable victory, further cementing his legacy as a Heisman winner.
A Defensive Masterpiece Against Army
This matchup in 1946, often called “The Greatest Game Ever Played,” ended in a 0-0 tie at Yankee Stadium. Despite the lack of scoring, the game’s sheer talent level and strategic brilliance made it a defining moment in college football history.
Breaking Oklahoma’s Legendary Streak
Notre Dame brought Oklahoma’s 47-game winning streak to a screeching halt in 1957 with a stunning 7-0 victory in Norman. Dick Lynch’s fourth-quarter touchdown run became the stuff of legend, showcasing the Irish defense’s dominance.
Showdown with Miami: “Catholics vs. Convicts”
One of the most heated rivalries in college football history, Notre Dame defeated Miami 31-30 in 1988, a game filled with drama and intensity. Pat Terrell’s critical deflection on a two-point conversion sealed the win and propelled the Irish to a perfect season and a national title.
Heartbreak Against USC
Although it ended in defeat, Notre Dame’s clash with USC in 1974 remains a classic. Leading 24-0 at halftime, the Irish were stunned by the Trojans’ incredible 55-24 comeback. This game exemplified the fierce competitiveness of the storied rivalry.
National Championship Glory in the Sugar Bowl
Back in 1973, Notre Dame edged Alabama 24-23 in the Sugar Bowl to claim the national championship. Tom Clements’ clutch pass to Robin Weber on a critical third down stands as one of the program’s most iconic moments.
Topping Florida State in “The Game of the Century”
In a battle of #1 vs. #2, Notre Dame defeated Florida State 31-24 in South Bend in 1993. Kevin McDougal and a determined defense led the Irish to victory, solidifying this game as one of the most thrilling in program history.
Joe Montana’s Heroics in the Cotton Bowl
Nicknamed “The Chicken Soup Game” in 1979, Joe Montana rallied the Irish from a 23-point deficit in freezing conditions to beat Houston 35-34. Fueled by determination and, legend has it, some warm soup, Montana’s performance epitomized Notre Dame’s fighting spirit.
The Rise of the Four Horsemen
Facing Army at the Polo Grounds back in 1924, Notre Dame triumphed 13-7 in a game that immortalized Grantland Rice’s description of the “Four Horsemen.” This victory was pivotal in establishing Notre Dame as a national powerhouse.
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