The upcoming matchup between the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Wisconsin Badgers is set to be a highlight of the 2026 college football season. This game will take place at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on Sunday, September 6, marking the end of Week 1 of the college football calendar. The Fighting Irish and Badgers have a long-standing rivalry, having faced each other 17 times since their first encounter in 1900. Currently, Notre Dame leads the all-time series with a record of 9 wins, 6 losses, and 2 ties.
The inaugural game between these two teams saw Wisconsin dominate, winning 54-0 in Madison on November 10, 1900. The Badgers continued their early success, securing a 58-0 victory in Milwaukee in 1904 and following it up with another shutout, 21-0, in 1905. By the end of their first four meetings, Wisconsin had outscored Notre Dame 133-0, showcasing their early dominance in this rivalry.
However, the tides began to turn in favor of Notre Dame in the 1920s. The Fighting Irish claimed a significant victory in 1924 with a score of 38-3, initiating a four-game winning streak. During this period, Notre Dame did not allow a single point, recording shutouts in 1929, 1934, 1935, and 1936. This defensive prowess marked a turning point in the series, as the Irish began to establish themselves as a formidable opponent.
The rivalry saw a brief resurgence in the 1940s, with Wisconsin winning 50-0 in 1943, followed by Notre Dame's 28-13 victory in 1944. After these encounters, the two teams entered a lengthy hiatus that lasted nearly two decades before they resumed their rivalry in the 1960s. Wisconsin won the first two meetings in 1962 and 1963, but Notre Dame emerged victorious in 1964, which was notably Ara Parseghian's first game as head coach.
Following this matchup, the rivalry went dormant for an astonishing 57 years until they met again in 2021 at Soldier Field in Chicago. In this highly anticipated return, Notre Dame showcased their strength, scoring 31 unanswered points and ultimately winning 41-13. This victory not only reignited the rivalry but also set the stage for their upcoming clash in Green Bay.
The game at Lambeau Field will be only the third college football game ever played at this iconic venue, which is better known for hosting the Green Bay Packers. As the Fighting Irish prepare for this contest, they are considered the favorites against a rival they have faced for over a century. This matchup is not just a game; it is a continuation of a rich history that has seen both teams evolve and compete at high levels.
As the 2026 season kicks off, fans can expect an exciting atmosphere as these two storied programs clash once again, adding another chapter to their historical rivalry.
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