Penn State vs. Notre Dame: The Historic Rivalry Renewed

The Penn State Nittany Lions and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish are two of the most storied programs in college football. Their rivalry, which dates back to 1897, is one of the oldest and most iconic in the sport. Over the years, these two teams have clashed on the gridiron, producing some of the most memorable moments in college football history. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Penn State vs. Notre Dame rivalry, its history, and what makes it so special.

The Penn State vs. Notre Dame rivalry is often referred to as the greatest rivalry in college football. And for good reason. These two teams have a long and storied history, with a combined 42 national championships and 54 bowl wins. Their rivalry is fueled by a combination of factors, including geographic proximity, cultural differences, and a desire to prove superiority. The two teams are situated in neighboring states, with Penn State located in the Keystone State and Notre Dame situated in the Hoosier State. This proximity has led to a fierce and often bitter rivalry between the two schools.

In addition to their geographic proximity, the Penn State vs. Notre Dame rivalry is also fueled by cultural differences. Penn State is a Midwestern school with a strong blue-collar work ethic, while Notre Dame is a Catholic school with a strong sense of tradition and history. These differences have led to a clash of styles on the field, with Penn State often relying on a strong running game and Notre Dame relying on a high-powered passing attack.

Despite the many ups and downs over the years, the Penn State vs. Notre Dame rivalry remains one of the most beloved and respected in college football. Both schools have produced some of the greatest players and coaches in the sport, and their rivalry has been featured in numerous films, books, and documentaries.

History of the Rivalry

The Penn State vs. Notre Dame rivalry began in 1897, when the two schools first met on the gridiron. Since then, the two teams have clashed 113 times, with Penn State holding a slight edge in the all-time series. The rivalry has been marked by numerous memorable moments, including the infamous 1988 game in which Penn State quarterback Bo Jackson threw for 304 yards and three touchdowns.

Early Years

The early years of the Penn State vs. Notre Dame rivalry were marked by a series of close games and low-scoring affairs. The two teams would often battle for control of the Keystone State, with the winner earning bragging rights and often more.

Some notable games from the early years of the rivalry include the 1909 game in which Notre Dame's Walter Camp threw for 140 yards and two touchdowns, and the 1912 game in which Penn State's Harry Stuhldreher threw for 100 yards and two touchdowns.

Mid-Century Era

The mid-century era of the Penn State vs. Notre Dame rivalry was marked by a series of upsets and dramatic finishes. The 1952 game, in which Penn State quarterback Pat Battle threw for 262 yards and two touchdowns, is often cited as one of the greatest games in the history of the rivalry.

Other notable games from the mid-century era include the 1956 game in which Notre Dame's Howard Jones threw for 250 yards and two touchdowns, and the 1959 game in which Penn State's Pete Elliott threw for 200 yards and two touchdowns.

Modern Era

The modern era of the Penn State vs. Notre Dame rivalry has been marked by a series of high-scoring games and dramatic finishes. The 2005 game, in which Penn State quarterback Anthony Morelli threw for 283 yards and two touchdowns, is often cited as one of the greatest games in the history of the rivalry.

Other notable games from the modern era include the 2007 game in which Notre Dame's Brady Quinn threw for 305 yards and three touchdowns, and the 2012 game in which Penn State quarterback Matt McGloin threw for 298 yards and three touchdowns.

2012: The Battle for the Ivy

The 2012 game between Penn State and Notre Dame is often cited as one of the greatest games in the history of the rivalry. The two teams clashed in a high-scoring affair, with Penn State ultimately emerging victorious 31-24.

Some notable plays from the game include:

• Penn State quarterback Matt McGloin's 12-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Allen Robinson with 3:45 remaining in the game
• Notre Dame quarterback Tommy Rees' 4-yard touchdown run with 2:31 remaining in the game
• Penn State linebacker Gerald Williams' interception with 1:25 remaining in the game, which sealed the win for Penn State

2016: The Upset

The 2016 game between Penn State and Notre Dame is often cited as one of the greatest upsets in the history of the rivalry. Penn State, who were 13-point underdogs, emerged victorious 52-38.

Some notable plays from the game include:

• Penn State quarterback Trace McSorley's 3-yard touchdown run with 12:45 remaining in the game, which gave Penn State a 17-10 lead
• Notre Dame quarterback DeShone Kizer's 2-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver C.J. Sanders with 1:34 remaining in the game, which gave Notre Dame a 38-35 lead
• Penn State defensive back tight end Christian Campbell's interception with 32 seconds remaining in the game, which sealed the win for Penn State

Impact of the Rivalry

The Penn State vs. Notre Dame rivalry has had a significant impact on both schools and the sport as a whole. Here are a few ways in which the rivalry has impacted the schools and the sport:

• _College Football's