News Now: “Top 5 Iconic Showdowns in the Penn State-Notre Dame Rivalry”

Notre Dame vs. Penn State: Historic Moments

Though infrequent, the rivalry between Notre Dame and Penn State has produced iconic games.

1976 Gator Bowl: In their only previous postseason meeting, Notre Dame triumphed 20-9. Tight end Ken McAfee had 76 receiving yards, while Al Hunter rushed for 102 yards and two touchdowns. Matt Suhey scored Penn State’s lone touchdown.

1987 Heisman Shutdown: Penn State stifled Heisman winner Tim Brown, holding him to 80 yards, while Blair Thomas dominated with 219 rushing yards in a 21-20 thriller. Notre Dame’s last-minute two-point attempt failed, preserving Penn State’s win.

1990 Upset of No. 1: No. 18 Penn State rallied from a 14-point deficit to upset top-ranked Notre Dame, 24-21. Craig Fayak’s game-winning field goal and two critical turnovers highlighted the victory.

1992 “Snow Bowl”: In a snowstorm, Notre Dame edged Penn State 17-16 with a bold two-point conversion led by Jerome Bettis. The win marked their last meeting before Penn State joined the Big Ten.

2007 “White Out”: Penn State avenged a prior loss with a commanding 31-10 win during its first full-stadium White Out. Derrick Williams’ 78-yard punt return electrified the crowd, while Austin Scott added two touchdowns. Notre Dame’s Jimmy Clausen struggled as Penn State dominated.

These moments define a rivalry filled with grit and unforgetta

ble finishes.