Notre Dame Football

Rivalry Renewed: Penn State and Notre Dame Gear Up For an Epic Orange Bowl Showdown!

Get ready for a thrilling clash as No. 6 Penn State faces off against No. 7 Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl—a match nearly 20 years in the making! Who’s taking home the bragging rights?

The long-anticipated clash between two college football powerhouses is finally upon us! On Thursday, January 9, 2025, No. 6 Penn State will rekindle their fierce rivalry with No. 7 Notre Dame in the highly awaited Orange Bowl, a College Football Playoff semifinal game. The two teams have a storied history, having faced off 19 times with the series tied 9-9-1, which adds an electrifying edge to this matchup. Fans can hardly contain their excitement as these titans of college football prepare to battle it out for a shot at the national championship.

The last time these esteemed teams met was back in 2007, a game in which the Nittany Lions emerged victorious with a decisive score of 31-10. Penn State and Notre Dame’s fierce competition embodied everything that college football is about—passion, pride, and a lot of trash-talking. As we step into 2025, both teams are looking to bring their A-game and claim their spot in history, making for an unpredictable and exhilarating showdown.

As they enter the Orange Bowl, ESPN's Matchup Predictor gives the Fighting Irish a 58.9% chance of victory, but let’s face it, we all know that anything can happen in the world of college football! Coaches and players alike have been channeling their focus into preparation, with Notre Dame's leadership encouraging their team to harness outside chatter as fuel rather than a distraction. Expect fierce determination and electrifying plays as both teams showcase their skills on the field.

So, how can fans catch all the action? Tune in on January 9, as the history of these two great programs collides once more in an unforgettable match-up. Grab your favorite snacks, wear your team colors, and prepare for drama, excitement, and a display of athletic excellence!

Fun fact: Did you know that the first meeting between Notre Dame and Penn State took place in 1964? Also, if you're looking for a reason to cheer even harder, keep in mind that Notre Dame is renowned for its iconic "Touchdown Jesus" mural that overlooks their field, while Penn State boasts the infamous White Out games that have become legendary during home events!