Navy vs. Notre Dame History: An Enduring Rivalry Steeped in Tradition

The storied rivalry between Notre Dame and Navy traces its roots back to 1927, marking the inception of a tradition that has endured for nearly a century. This annual clash holds the distinction of being the longest uninterrupted intersectional series in college football history, a testament to the enduring spirit of competition between these two institutions. While the Notre Dame-USC series was interrupted by the upheaval of World War II, the rivalry with Navy remained steadfast, symbolizing a special bond that transcended mere athletic competition.

A Crucial Lifeline

During the tumultuous period of World War II, when the nation was gripped by the urgency of war, colleges across the country faced unprecedented challenges. The economic strain was particularly felt by institutions like Notre Dame, which lacked the financial security of state funding or the extensive endowments of Ivy League schools. However, in a remarkable display of solidarity, the United States Navy came to Notre Dame’s rescue. Amidst the chaos of war, the Navy designated Notre Dame as a training center and provided crucial financial support, ensuring the university’s survival during a time of crisis. This act of generosity cemented a special relationship between Notre Dame and the Navy, rooted in mutual respect and gratitude.

Legendary Figures and Shared Sacrifice

Even legendary figures like Frank Leahy, who left his coaching position at Notre Dame to enlist in the Navy, exemplified the intertwined destinies of these two institutions. Whether through direct influence or the broader ethos of camaraderie, Leahy’s involvement underscored the depth of the bond between Notre Dame and the Navy.

A Tradition of Sportsmanship

Grateful for the Navy’s support during their darkest hour, Notre Dame reciprocated by extending an open invitation to Navy to compete against the Fighting Irish every year. This commitment, grounded in mutual trust and respect, reflects Notre Dame’s enduring values and its recognition of the Navy’s pivotal role in its history.

In 2005, a new tradition was born, as both teams stood side by side for the post-game singing of their alma maters, regardless of the outcome on the field. This gesture of sportsmanship and camaraderie exemplifies the unique bond shared between Notre Dame and Navy, transcending the boundaries of mere competition.

A Shift in Dynamics: Navy’s Success

After Navy’s monumental victory in 2007, the Midshipmen experienced a period of success against the Fighting Irish, capitalizing on their newfound momentum. Their triumphs included a pivotal 23-21 win over Notre Dame in 2009, contributing to the downfall of Charlie Weis’s coaching tenure at Notre Dame. This victory underscored Navy’s resilience and ability to compete at the highest level.

Challenges and Renewed Determination

The arrival of Brian Kelly as Notre Dame’s head coach ushered in a new era, but it began on a sour note for the Fighting Irish. In a humbling defeat, Navy delivered one of the most embarrassing losses of Kelly’s tenure, securing a resounding 35-17 victory at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This defeat served as a wake-up call for Notre Dame, highlighting the challenges they faced in maintaining their dominance over Navy.

Return to Dominance for Notre Dame

However, since that setback, Notre Dame has regained its footing in the series, reclaiming its dominance with authority. Over the past 12 meetings, the Fighting Irish have emerged victorious in 11 contests, demonstrating a renewed determination and resilience. The pinnacle of their recent success came with a resounding 42-3 blowout in Dublin, Ireland, marking the kickoff of the 2023 season in spectacular fashion.

A Promise of Thrilling Encounters

This recent resurgence underscores Notre Dame’s commitment to excellence and its unwavering pursuit of victory. As both teams continue to evolve and adapt, the rivalry between Notre Dame and Navy remains as intense and captivating as ever, promising thrilling encounters and enduring memories for generations of fans to come. Anchors aweigh, as the tradition lives on for decades to come.

Notre Dame Navy Series History

Season	W/L	PF	Location	PA
1927	W	19	Baltimore, MD	6
1928	W	7	Chicago, IL	0
1929	W	14	Baltimore, MD	7
1930	W	26	South Bend, IN	2
1931	W	20	Baltimore, MD	0
1932	W	12	Cleveland, OH	0
1933	L	0	Baltimore, MD	7
1934	L	6	Cleveland, OH	10
1935	W	14	Baltimore, MD	0
1936	L	0	Baltimore, MD	3
1937	W	9	South Bend, IN	7
1938	W	15	Baltimore, MD	0
1939	W	14	Cleveland, OH	7
1940	W	13	Baltimore, MD	7
1941	W	20	Baltimore, MD	13
1942	W	9	Cleveland, OH	0
1943	W	33	Cleveland, OH	6
1944	L	13	Baltimore, MD	32
1945	T	6	Cleveland, OH	6
1946	W	28	Baltimore, MD	0
1947	W	27	Cleveland, OH	0
1948	W	41	Baltimore, MD	7
1949	W	40	Baltimore, MD	0
1950	W	19	Cleveland, OH	10
1951	W	19	Baltimore, MD	0
1952	W	17	Cleveland, OH	6
1953	W	38	South Bend, IN	7
1954	W	6	Baltimore, MD	0
1955	W	21	South Bend, IN	7
1956	L	7	Baltimore, MD	33
1957	L	6	South Bend, IN	20
1958	W	40	Baltimore, MD	20
1959	W	25	South Bend, IN	22
1960	L	7	Philadelphia, PA	14
1961	L	10	South Bend, IN	13
1962	W	20	Philadelphia, PA	12
1963	L	14	South Bend, IN	35
1964	W	40	Philadelphia, PA	0
1965	W	29	South Bend, IN	3
1966	W	31	Philadelphia, PA	7
1967	W	43	South Bend, IN	14
1968	W	45	Philadelphia, PA	14
1969	W	47	South Bend, IN	0
1970	W	56	Philadelphia, PA	7
1971	W	21	South Bend, IN	0
1972	W	42	Philadelphia, PA	23
1973	W	44	South Bend, IN	7
1974	W	14	Philadelphia, PA	6
1975	W	31	South Bend, IN	10
1976	W	27	Cleveland, OH	21
1977	W	43	South Bend, IN	10
1978	W	27	Cleveland, OH	7
1979	W	14	South Bend, IN	0
1980	W	33	East Rutherford, NJ	0
1981	W	38	South Bend, IN	0
1982	W	27	East Rutherford, NJ	10
1983	W	28	South Bend, IN	12
1984	W	18	East Rutherford, NJ	17
1985	W	41	South Bend, IN	17
1986	W	33	Baltimore, MD	14
1987	W	56	South Bend, IN	13
1988	W	22	Baltimore, MD	7
1989	W	41	South Bend, IN	0
1990	W	52	East Rutherford, NJ	31
1991	W	38	South Bend, IN	0
1992	W	38	East Rutherford, NJ	7
1993	W	58	Philadelphia, PA	27
1994	W	58	South Bend, IN	21
1995	W	35	South Bend, IN	17
1996	W	54	Dublin, Ireland	27
1997	W	21	South Bend, IN	17
1998	W	30	Raljon, MD	0
1999	W	28	South Bend, IN	24
2000	W	45	Orlando, FL	14
2001	W	34	South Bend, IN	16
2002	W	30	Baltimore, MD	23
2003	W	27	South Bend, IN	24
2004	W	27	East Rutherford, NJ	9
2005	W	42	South Bend, IN	21
2006	W	38	Baltimore, MD	14
2007	L	44	South Bend, IN	46
2008	W	27	Baltimore, MD	21
2009	L	21	South Bend, IN	23
2010	L	17	East Rutherford, NJ	35
2011	W	56	South Bend, IN	14
2012	W	50	Dublin, Ireland	10
2013	W	38	South Bend, IN	34
2014	W	49	Landover, MD	39
2015	W	41	Notre Dame, IN	24
2016	L	27	Orlando, FL	28
2017	W	24	Notre Dame, IN	17
2018	W	44	San Diego, CA	22
2019	W	52	Notre Dame, IN	20
2021	W	34	Notre Dame, IN	6
2022	W	35	Baltimore, MD	22
2023	W	42	Dublin, Ireland	3