WEST LAFAYETTE, Indiana – In a move that reshapes one of college football’s long‑standing rivalries, Purdue University confirmed on Tuesday that it will not play Notre Dame during the 2027 season. The Boilermakers will instead open their non‑conference slate with a game against West Virginia.
Scheduling shift driven by playoff expansion
“With the expected expansion of the College Football Playoff to 24 teams, there will be scheduling parameters for schools to follow, including having 10 regular‑season games against power‑conference opponents,” said Tommy McClelland, Purdue’s Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics. “Getting Coach Odom’s program into matchups that best serve our goals and ambitions has been a focus of mine since arriving in West Lafayette, and we are excited to add this game with West Virginia.”
McClelland clarified that the decision does not permanently end the rivalry with Notre Dame. “The tradition‑rich rivalry of Purdue and Notre Dame, a matchup that has been played on and off 90 times in program history, will be reevaluated for potential addition to future schedules,” he added.
Historical context
The Purdue‑Notre Dame series has been a staple of Midwestern college football, though it has been played intermittently over the decades. The most recent meeting was in 2023, with Notre Dame prevailing. Purdue’s last encounter with West Virginia dates back to September 21, 1996, a 20‑6 loss, while the Boilermakers won the inaugural meeting on September 2, 1995, by a score of 26‑24.
Notre Dame’s response
Following Purdue’s announcement, Notre Dame quickly filled the open slot by arranging a home‑and‑home series with another Big Ten member, the University of Illinois. The Irish will host the Illini on September 4, 2027, and travel to Champaign for the return game on September 2, 2028. Notre Dame leads the all‑time series against Illinois 11‑0‑1.
Other 2027 non‑conference games for Purdue
In addition to the West Virginia matchup, Purdue’s 2027 non‑conference schedule includes a game against the University at Albany on August 28 and a contest with Miami (Ohio) on September 11.
Implications for fans and the region
The scheduling change will affect local fans who have long traveled to Indianapolis and South Bend for the rivalry games. While the pause may disappoint some, both universities emphasize that the decisions are rooted in strategic planning for competitive balance and playoff positioning. The addition of West Virginia offers a fresh regional contest, and the new Illinois series gives Notre Dame another traditional Big Ten opponent.
Both schools remain committed to delivering high‑quality football experiences for their supporters and maintaining the rich traditions that define Midwestern college athletics.
Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.
