Notre Dame–BYU Rivalry Could Expand Beyond Two Games

Why the Series Is Happening

Notre Dame’s independent status gives the program latitude to craft its own slate each season, freeing it from a fixed conference schedule. When USC chose to bow out of its long‑standing rivalry, the Irish acted swiftly to fill the void, swinging a two‑game series with BYU that kicks off this fall. The Cougars’ athletic director, Brian Santiago, told John Kurtz that both sides are eager to prolong the current arrangement. This move not only restores a marquee matchup but also opens the door for collaboration on other sports.

BYU’s Perspective on a Longer Partnership

Santiago’s comments indicate a mutual interest in extending the deal beyond football, potentially weaving other athletic contests into the calendar. The BYU administration sees value in a broader relationship that could benefit both programs competitively and financially. Such an expansion would be a direct result of USC’s decision to step away, turning a setback into a new opportunity. The two schools now have a chance to build a more comprehensive rivalry footprint.

What This Means for Notre Dame’s Schedule

Starting with this season, fans can expect two games against BYU before any decision on future years is made, providing immediate continuity in a high‑profile matchup. The series adds a challenging opponent to the Irish’s rotation, complementing existing independents and non‑conference foes. It also reinforces Notre Dame’s reputation for securing top‑tier competition despite its independent label. Should the extension materialize, the Irish could enjoy a more consistent opponent for years to come.

BYU’s Broader Athletic Rise

The Cougars are not just a football powerhouse; their basketball programs have gained notable traction this season. The men’s team’s acquisition of the No. 1 overall pick, AJ Dybantsa, signals a budding talent pipeline that will draw extra attention to the campus. BYU’s athletic director’s openness to multi‑sport scheduling hints at a campus-wide push to elevate its sporting profile. This broader synergy could make future matchups between the two schools even more compelling.

With both sides expressing enthusiasm, the hope is that the current two‑game arrangement evolves into a longer‑term series that benefits fans, athletes, and the institutions alike. The unexpected opening left by USC’s withdrawal has turned into a promising chapter for Notre Dame and BYU, potentially ushering in a new era of competition. Stay tuned as the negotiations unfold and more BYU games might become a regular part of the Irish calendar.