Notre Dame Football: Five venues the Irish need to play in
By Andrew Hall
The Chinese market represents a large opportunity for American football on both the collegiate and professional levels.
The Pac-12 commissioner, Larry Scott, said in 2013 that Notre Dame and Stanford would play a game in China “in not too distant future.” His comment confirmed rumors that swirled for years about the possibility of an overseas matchup in Asia. However, seven years have passed since this comment at a press conference.
According to reports, Beijing was the purposed site for game. Although no stadium was reported, the Workers’ Stadium seems logical. In 2007, the NFL scheduled a preseason game called the “China Bowl.” The Seahawks and the Patriots were slated to participate at Workers’ Stadium. For various reasons, the NFL delayed and eventually canceled the contest.
Notre Dame traveled to Japan to play Miami (FL) in 1979 in the “Mirage Bowl.” The Irish, led by Vegas Ferguson, defeated the Hurricanes, 40-15.
In 2009, Fighting Irish alumni played the Japan American Football Association in the Japan Bowl. Former Notre Dame Quarterback Lou Holtz coached the team to 19-3 victory in Tokyo. Running Back Jay Vickers ran for 139 yards and 1 touchdowns. These contests show an interest in the sport in Asia.
In 1991, Pacific Lutheran and Evangel played in Workers’ Stadium.
Due to the lengthy travel, the game would need to be played as the opener or a season finale. If Stanford is the opponent, a conclusion in Beijing seems fitting. Obviously, political and health situations may delay or prohibit any possible contest in China. However, it would make a trip of a lifetime for Notre Dame players and fans.