Clemson vs. Notre Dame: A Rivalry Renewed – 12-Year Scheduling Agreement Set Through 2038

On Tuesday, Clemson and Notre Dame announced a 12-year scheduling agreement that will place the two football powerhouses on the schedule until 2038. The Tigers and the Irish have only played eight times in their history—Clemson winning the last matchup in 2023 with a score of 31-23.

In 2015, Hurricane Joaquin brought hurricane conditions to Death Valley in an epic win that propelled the Tigers into their first College Football Playoff appearance. In 2018, Clemson defeated Notre Dame 30-3 in the Cotton Bowl before going on to win the National Championship just weeks later.

What Does This Have to Do with Frank Howard?

Clemson's legendary coach, Frank Howard, led the Tigers from 1940 to 1969 and remained as Athletic Director for two additional years. Howard controlled the football scheduling during his tenure, and he always pushed for the best outside of the ACC.

In today's college football landscape, it’s important for strong brands to play other strong brands. “This locks in a huge rivalry for us with a non-conference team that’s going to be good year in and year out,” said Clemson Athletic Director Graham Neff. “The association creates a great fan experience, strong viewership, and value that is obviously a fundamental component.”

A Rivalry Through the Decades

For me and many Clemson fans, this rivalry goes back to 1977 when Notre Dame, led by Joe Montana, and Clemson, led by Steve Fuller, faced off in a game decided by a late fourth-quarter touchdown, with Notre Dame narrowly defeating the Tigers 21-17. I was there with my dad, who still has the ticket stubs. They were $7 each, and at the time, we didn’t realize we were watching Joe Montana, who would go on to become one of the greatest quarterbacks in football history.

Fast forward to 2015, when Ben Boulware and Company made a crucial stop just inches from the goal line to secure a victory fought amid hurricane weather. It had to be one of the wettest games in college football history, and after the game, Dabo Swinney famously coined the phrase, “BYOG” (Bring Your Own Guts).

Bring on the Irish! ☘️ More great memories are sure to be made in this epic rivalry.