Image Source: Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame vs Purdue takes center stage Saturday afternoon as the Fighting Irish travel to West Lafayette for the 90th meeting between the longtime rivals. The game carries added significance because the teams will again compete for the historic Shillelagh Trophy, with Notre Dame looking to extend its winning streak against the Boilermakers to 11 games.
The matchup will be exclusively streamed on Peacock, marking the first time Notre Dame has played an away game available only on the platform. The Fighting Irish enter the contest with a perfect 5-0 record in Peacock-exclusive games, adding another intriguing storyline to an already rich rivalry.
Notre Dame vs Purdue Renews a Historic Trophy Battle
Notre Dame owns a commanding 61-26-2 all-time record against Purdue. The programs first met in 1896, while the Irish recorded their first victory in the series in 1901, defeating the Boilermakers 12-6 at home.
The rivalry’s signature prize, the Shillelagh Trophy, was introduced in 1957. Since then, Notre Dame has gone 42-19 in games played for the trophy, including a 23-6 mark at Notre Dame Stadium. Gold footballs attached to the trophy identify each result: Notre Dame victories feature the Irish initials, while Purdue wins carry a “P.”
The schools also shared a remarkable stretch of scheduling consistency. Notre Dame and Purdue played every season for 68 consecutive years from 1946 through 2014. Saturday’s contest represents the third straight season in which the teams have met.
Irish Carry Powerful Momentum Into West Lafayette
Notre Dame’s recent dominance has been especially notable. The Irish have won the last 10 games in the series, and their most recent trip to West Lafayette produced one of the most decisive results in the rivalry’s modern history. In 2024, Notre Dame defeated Purdue 66-7 on the road.
Head coach Marcus Freeman also brings a personal connection to the matchup. Freeman served as Purdue’s linebackers coach from 2013 through 2015 before becoming the Boilermakers’ co-defensive coordinator in 2016. His familiarity with the program adds another layer to a game already filled with regional and historical importance.
Under Freeman, Notre Dame is 9-3 against Big Ten opponents. The Irish will have opened their 2026 campaign by facing Big Ten teams in three of their first four contests, making Saturday another important test against a familiar conference opponent.
CJ Carr Building Confidence Against Big Ten Foes
Quarterback CJ Carr has been particularly effective when facing Big Ten competition. He is 4-0 as a starting quarterback against Big Ten opponents, with victories over Purdue, USC, Wisconsin and Michigan State.
- Notre Dame defeated Purdue 56-30 in 2025.
- The Irish beat USC 34-24 in 2025.
- Notre Dame topped Wisconsin 41-13 in 2026.
- The Irish defeated Michigan State 27-10 in 2026.
Carr’s undefeated record in those starts gives Notre Dame confidence entering a road environment where the Boilermakers will be eager to challenge the Irish’s recent control of the series. His performance will be closely watched as Notre Dame attempts to maintain its offensive rhythm and protect its trophy-game advantage.
What to Watch in Saturday’s Showdown
The 90th edition of Notre Dame vs Purdue combines a historic rivalry, a traveling fan base and an unusual viewing arrangement. Fans will need Peacock to watch the game, while radio coverage will remain available through the Notre Dame Radio Network.
For Notre Dame, the immediate goal is straightforward: secure another win and retain the Shillelagh Trophy. A victory would extend the Irish’s series streak, reinforce their strong record against Big Ten opponents under Freeman and continue Carr’s impressive run against the conference.
Purdue, meanwhile, has the opportunity to produce a dramatic rivalry reset. Ending a 10-game losing streak against Notre Dame would give the Boilermakers a signature result and make the trophy’s next gold football especially meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Notre Dame vs Purdue?
The game is scheduled for Saturday afternoon, September 26, 2026.
Where will Notre Dame vs Purdue be played?
The matchup will be played at Purdue in West Lafayette, Indiana.
How can fans watch the game?
The 90th Shillelagh Trophy game will be exclusively streamed on Peacock.
What is Notre Dame’s record against Purdue?
Notre Dame is 61-26-2 all-time against Purdue and has won the last 10 meetings.
What is the Shillelagh Trophy?
The Shillelagh Trophy is the rivalry prize contested by Notre Dame and Purdue. The tradition began in 1957, with gold footballs marking each team’s victories.
