THE FIVE MOST MEMORABLE GAMES IN PENNSYLVANIA STATES NOTRE DAME FOOTBALL RIVALRY…
**The Five Most Memorable Games in the Penn State-Notre Dame Football Rivalry**
The Penn State Nittany Lions and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish have shared a historic football rivalry marked by iconic moments and thrilling matchups. Although the two programs have not faced each other regularly in recent years, their meetings have left an indelible mark on college football history. Here are five of the most memorable games in the Penn State-Notre Dame rivalry:
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### **1. The Snow Bowl (1982)**
One of the most iconic games in the rivalry occurred on November 20, 1982, in South Bend, Indiana. Penn State entered the game as the second-ranked team in the nation, seeking a win to solidify its bid for a national championship. The game was played in harsh winter conditions, with heavy snowfall blanketing the field.
Despite the weather, Penn State quarterback Todd Blackledge threw for two touchdowns, leading the Nittany Lions to a hard-fought 24-14 victory. This win helped propel Penn State to a national championship later that season, solidifying its place in college football history.
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### **2. The 1986 Classic**
The 1986 matchup between Penn State and Notre Dame was another pivotal game, as the Nittany Lions were on their way to an undefeated season and a second national championship under coach Joe Paterno.
Played in Beaver Stadium, Penn State secured a dominant 24-19 victory over the Irish. Notre Dame quarterback Steve Beuerlein struggled against a ferocious Penn State defense, while the Nittany Lions’ balanced offense proved too much for the Irish to handle. This win was a key milestone in Penn State’s journey to the national title that year.
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### **3. The 1990 Thriller**
In 1990, Notre Dame was a powerhouse led by legendary coach Lou Holtz and star quarterback Rick Mirer. The Irish were ranked No. 1 and heavily favored when they faced the Nittany Lions in South Bend.
However, Penn State delivered a stunning upset, edging out Notre Dame with a 24-21 victory. Penn State kicker Craig Fayak nailed a game-winning 34-yard field goal in the final seconds, silencing the Notre Dame faithful and cementing the game as one of the most memorable in the rivalry’s history.
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### **4. The Final Regular-Season Matchup (2007)**
The rivalry’s last regular-season matchup took place on September 8, 2007, in Happy Valley. Penn State, led by quarterback Anthony Morelli and a stingy defense, delivered a decisive 31-10 victory over the Fighting Irish.
Notre Dame struggled against the Nittany Lions’ dominant pass rush, and Penn State capitalized on turnovers to secure the win. The game marked the end of an era, as the teams have not faced each other in the regular season since.
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### **5. The 1992 Showdown**
The 1992 matchup in South Bend was a high-scoring affair that highlighted both teams’ offensive prowess. Notre Dame quarterback Rick Mirer led the Irish to a thrilling 17-16 victory, with the game decided by a missed extra point from Penn State.
This nail-biter showcased the competitive spirit of the rivalry and remains one of the most talked-about games between the two programs.
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### **A Rivalry Etched in History**
The Penn State-Notre Dame football rivalry may not be as frequent as other college matchups, but its legacy endures through these unforgettable games. Each meeting has been a showcase of talent, passion, and the storied traditions of two of college football’s most iconic programs. Fans of both teams eagerly await the possibility of future matchups to rekindle this historic rivalry.
