25 Facts About Syracuse Vs. Notre Dame

Syracuse vs. Notre Dame: A Historic Rivalry

Syracuse and Notre Dame have a storied history in college sports, particularly in football and basketball. This rivalry has produced some unforgettable moments and fascinating facts. Let's dive into some intriguing details about these two teams.

1. First Meeting: Syracuse and Notre Dame first faced off in football on November 21, 1914. Notre Dame won that game 20-0.

2. Basketball Beginnings: Their first basketball game took place on February 27, 1980, with Syracuse emerging victorious 76-75.

3. Annual Showdown: The football teams don't play each other every year, but when they do, it's always a highly anticipated game.

Memorable Moments on the Field

The gridiron has seen some epic battles between these two teams. Here are some standout moments that fans still talk about.

4. 1984 Upset: Syracuse shocked Notre Dame with a 21-14 victory in 1984, a game that is still celebrated by Orange fans.

5. 2003 Thriller: In 2003, Syracuse defeated Notre Dame 38-12, marking one of their most decisive wins against the Fighting Irish.

6. 2018 Yankee Stadium: The 2018 game at Yankee Stadium saw Notre Dame dominate Syracuse 36-3, a game played in the iconic baseball venue.

Basketball Battles

On the hardwood, Syracuse and Notre Dame have also had their share of intense matchups. Here are some highlights.

7. Big East Rivals: Both teams were part of the Big East Conference before Notre Dame moved to the ACC in 2013.

8. 2013 ACC Move: Notre Dame's move to the ACC reignited the rivalry, as Syracuse joined the conference the same year.

9. 2016 ACC Tournament: In the 2016 ACC Tournament, Syracuse defeated Notre Dame 81-70, showcasing their competitive spirit.

Coaching Legends

Both schools have been led by some of the most iconic coaches in college sports history.

10. Frank Leahy: Notre Dame's Frank Leahy is one of the most successful coaches in college football history, with a record of 107-13-9.

11. Jim Boeheim: Syracuse's Jim Boeheim has been a staple in college basketball, coaching the Orange since 1976 and amassing over 1,000 wins.

12. Lou Holtz: Lou Holtz led Notre Dame to a national championship in 1988, cementing his legacy as a coaching legend.

Fan Traditions

The fans of Syracuse and Notre Dame are known for their passionate support and unique traditions.

13. The Dome: Syracuse's Carrier Dome is one of the loudest venues in college sports, giving the Orange a significant home-court advantage.

14. Touchdown Jesus: Notre Dame's "Touchdown Jesus" mural is an iconic symbol, visible from inside Notre Dame Stadium.

15. The Leprechaun: Notre Dame's mascot, the Leprechaun, is one of the most recognizable figures in college sports.

Academic Excellence

Both universities are renowned for their academic programs and contributions to higher education.

16. Top Rankings: Notre Dame consistently ranks among the top 20 national universities in the United States.

17. Research Powerhouse: Syracuse is known for its strong research programs, particularly in public communications and information studies.

18. Rhodes Scholars: Both schools have produced numerous Rhodes Scholars, highlighting their commitment to academic excellence.

Notable Alumni

Syracuse and Notre Dame boast impressive lists of alumni who have made significant impacts in various fields.

19. Joe Biden: The 46th President of the United States, Joe Biden, is a proud Syracuse Law School graduate.

20. Regis Philbin: Television legend Regis Philbin graduated from Notre Dame in 1953.

21. Donovan McNabb: Former NFL quarterback Donovan McNabb played for Syracuse before his professional career.

Cultural Impact

The influence of these universities extends beyond sports and academics into popular culture.

22. Movies and TV: Notre Dame has been featured in numerous films, including the iconic "Rudy," which tells the story of a walk-on football player.

23. Media Presence: Syracuse's Newhouse School of Public Communications has produced many prominent journalists and broadcasters.

24. Literary Contributions: Both schools have notable alumni in the literary world, including authors and Pulitzer Prize winners.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the rivalry between Syracuse and Notre Dame shows no signs of slowing down.

25. Continued Competition: As both schools continue to excel in sports and academics, their matchups will remain must-watch events for fans and alumni alike.

The Final Whistle

Syracuse vs. Notre Dame isn't just another game; it's a clash of history, talent, and passion. From the legendary players who’ve graced the field to the unforgettable moments that have defined this rivalry, every game adds a new chapter. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the energy and excitement are undeniable. This matchup showcases the best of college football, blending tradition with fierce competition. So next time these teams meet, remember the rich history and the incredible stories that make this rivalry special. Grab your jersey, cheer loudly, and enjoy the game. Football is more than a sport; it's a shared experience that brings people together. Syracuse vs. Notre Dame is a perfect example of that magic.