Lincoln Riley will take his first trip to Notre Dame when USC plays the Fighting Irish this Saturday.
Speaking to reporters Thursday, the head coach said he’s never experienced South Bend before. However, he has seen Rudy “probably 5,000 times.”
Lincoln Riley says he’s watched the movie Rudy “5,000 times.”
— Luca Evans (@bylucaevans) October 12, 2023
The 1993 movie film is based on the real-life of Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, an undersized walk-on who earned his way onto the Notre Dame football team. The 5-foot-6, 165-pound defender recorded a sack when dressing for the first time in the final game of his senior season.
However, another Rudy re-watch probably won’t help Riley prepare for the Fighting Irish much.
USC remains undefeated entering its biggest test of the season thus far. Despite losing two of its last three games, Notre Dame is ranked No. 21.
Caleb Williams will oppose a defense allowing just 146.6 passing yards per game. On the other end, a vulnerable Trojans defense must contain Sam Hartman, who’s averaging 9.4 yards per pass attempt.
Riley and his team will also experience less favorable weather conditions than they’re accustomed to in California. Saturday’s forecast calls for rain with temperatures in the low-50s.
“There’ll be a lot of fun, unique challenges,” Riley said. “But again, a rivalry game, that’s what it should be like. Two good football teams, it will be a fun environment. Our guys are very, very excited to go play.”
The marquee matchup starts Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC.