Speaking on the addition of a possible new annual powerhouse football rival, Notre Dame AD
In the world of college football, few things generate as much excitement and anticipation as the idea of a new, long-standing rivalry. These rivalries, often steeped in tradition and fierce competition, have a way of captivating fans and shaping the landscape of the sport. Notre Dame, a program synonymous with excellence, tradition, and national recognition, has long been known for its storied history of iconic matchups with powerhouse teams. However, as the landscape of college football continues to evolve, the possibility of Notre Dame establishing a new annual powerhouse football rival has become a topic of great interest.
In a recent interview, Notre Dame’s Athletic Director, Jack Swarbrick, opened up about the possibility of adding a new annual rival to the Fighting Irish’s already competitive schedule. Known for his progressive vision for college athletics and his role in the development of Notre Dame’s football program, Swarbrick discussed the strategic, competitive, and cultural implications of such a move. This potential addition would not only alter the trajectory of Notre Dame football but could also serve as a catalyst for broader changes in college football as a whole.
The Evolution of College Football Rivalries
Rivalries in college football are not just about teams competing for championships; they represent decades—sometimes centuries—of history, regional pride, and fan loyalty. For Notre Dame, traditional rivals like USC, Michigan, and Stanford have helped define the identity of the program. These games are not just about wins and losses—they represent the spirit and culture of college football, filled with pageantry, history, and passion.
However, as the college football landscape has changed with conference realignment, the expansion of the College Football Playoff, and the increased commercialization of the sport, traditional rivalries have been tested. Teams that once played each other on a regular basis are now facing off less frequently, and the idea of what constitutes a “rivalry” has shifted. In this context, Swarbrick’s vision for a new powerhouse rivalry is more than just a response to changes in the sport—it’s a proactive effort to keep Notre Dame at the forefront of the evolving landscape.
“College football is changing,” Swarbrick says. “The sport is more national than ever before, and while tradition is incredibly important, we also have to look forward. Rivalries evolve with the times, and our fans deserve to see Notre Dame take on the best and the brightest every year. We want to keep the tradition of Notre Dame football alive, while also creating exciting, competitive matchups that generate the kind of energy we know our fans and players thrive on.”
The Strategic Importance of an Annual Rival
For Notre Dame, adding an annual powerhouse football rival goes beyond just having another high-profile opponent. It’s about strategically positioning the program for sustained success, both in terms of competitiveness and national relevance. As an independent school, Notre Dame has the freedom to schedule its own opponents, which provides the program with flexibility but also presents unique challenges in maintaining a balanced and challenging schedule. With no conference championship to contend for, Notre Dame’s placement in the College Football Playoff (CFP) is often determined by the strength of its schedule, and adding a high-caliber annual rival could significantly bolster that strength.
“Every year, we face the challenge of crafting a schedule that tests our team but also provides the right amount of exposure,” Swarbrick explains. “An annual rivalry with another powerhouse team would help to solidify our place at the top of the sport and create an ongoing story. It’s about making sure our team is battle-tested, that we’re playing against teams that not only push us to our limits but also elevate the profile of the sport.”
There is also the financial aspect of scheduling high-profile games. The exposure that comes from playing against another nationally recognized program has the potential to draw more fans, increase television ratings, and boost merchandise sales. While Notre Dame’s football program is already one of the most profitable in the country, a new, annual powerhouse rivalry could drive even greater financial growth and visibility, further cementing the program’s place as a marquee brand in the sport.
The Process of Selecting a Rival
One of the most intriguing aspects of Swarbrick’s vision for a new rivalry is the question of which program would be the best fit for an annual matchup. In a sport where historic rivalries have often been shaped by geography, conference alignment, or long-standing animosities, creating a new rivalry from scratch is no small feat.
Swarbrick has been careful to consider the broader implications of adding a new rival. He notes that it’s essential to identify a program that shares Notre Dame’s level of competitiveness, national prominence, and commitment to excellence. This would not only ensure that the games are competitive but also that they generate the kind of buzz and excitement necessary to make the rivalry truly meaningful.
“There’s a lot that goes into choosing the right opponent,” Swarbrick says. “It’s not just about a team with a strong football program. We’re looking for a matchup that excites our fans, generates national interest, and fits into the long-term vision of Notre Dame football. We want a program that has the same commitment to excellence that we do, and a team that will bring out the best in us year after year.”
Several teams have been floated as potential candidates for the new rivalry. Programs like Ohio State, Georgia, Alabama, and even Clemson have been discussed as possible opponents due to their consistent success and high national rankings. A matchup between Notre Dame and any of these programs would certainly capture the attention of college football fans across the country, offering a new, electrifying chapter to college football’s storied rivalry traditions.
The Impact on the College Football Landscape
The addition of a new annual powerhouse football rival would have far-reaching consequences beyond just Notre Dame. It could serve as a model for how college football programs approach their scheduling and rivalries moving forward. The competitive nature of college football means that teams are always seeking ways to differentiate themselves, whether it’s through unique scheduling decisions, participation in non-conference games, or entering into high-profile rivalries that enhance their reputation.
“College football is a sport that thrives on competition, and rivalries are a huge part of that,” Swarbrick notes. “By creating a new, highly anticipated annual rivalry, we’re helping to elevate the sport as a whole. It’s about creating matchups that fans care about and that players get excited for. Rivalries create energy, and energy creates excitement around the game.”
If Notre Dame were to succeed in creating a new annual powerhouse rivalry, it could encourage other top programs to follow suit, ensuring that the national landscape remains filled with marquee matchups that keep fans engaged throughout the season. This could also have an impact on the CFP selection process, as more teams engage in tough, regular non-conference games, leading to an even more competitive field.
The Fans’ Perspective: A New Era of Rivalries
Of course, at the heart of any great college football rivalry are the fans. Notre Dame’s fan base is one of the most passionate and loyal in the sport, and the prospect of a new annual powerhouse rival is sure to ignite excitement among them. Swarbrick acknowledges the importance of fan engagement in the success of a rivalry.
“Our fans are the lifeblood of this program,” Swarbrick says. “They are passionate, they are dedicated, and they love college football. A new rivalry would be something they could rally behind every year. It’s about creating that sense of anticipation and excitement, knowing that every season, there’s a game that matters just a little bit more than the others. The rivalry isn’t just about us—it’s about creating something that brings people together, that unites fans around a common cause.”
With the rise of social media and the digital age, rivalries are no longer confined to the stands or the television screen. Fans now have more ways to interact with the program, build narratives, and engage in the storylines surrounding a rivalry. The prospect of a new powerhouse rival offers a unique opportunity to build a fresh narrative around the rivalry, with players, coaches, and fans alike contributing to its mythos.
