Notre Dame football rival defender entering the portal again

While there’s no love lost between the Notre Dame football team and the USC Trojans, the two programs are dealing with similar situations this week. Both squads had players announce they are redshirting and plan to transfer when the portal opens.

For the Fighting Irish, it was Jaden Mickey. The defense back has reportedly considered doing this before, but he finally pulled the trigger on Monday. Mickey is also going to graduate from ND, even though he’ll transfer.

On the other hand, Bear Alexander is departing the Notre Dame football team’s rival on less friendly grounds. The defensive tackle, who is getting a reputation as someone who transfers far too much, has reportedly had run-ins with Lincoln Riley and his staff.

Alexander announced his intention to leave USC on Wednesday. Interestingly, this announcement came amid similar announcements by players around the country.

Notre Dame football rival defender leaves team in the lurch

Tony Jones, who Alexander calls his father, confirmed to ESPN that Alexander doesn't plan to play for the rest of the season to preserve a year of eligibility, though he will continue to practice.

"We made clear what our goals are," Jones said. "That goal is to be a full-time starter and leader on the defense like we came there to be."

Last season, Alexander’s first with USC, he did look like the starter and leader as he logged 47 tackles from the defensive line. He didn’t play against the Fighting Irish.

This year, however, he’s only logged 5 tackles and has seen his playing time diminish considerably. At least part of the reason for that might be the previously mentioned issues with the USC coaching staff.

It’s an interesting development for the Notre Dame football team, which will now never have to face Bear Alexander despite him arriving in L.A. as one of the best defensive linemen in the country. That’s especially a big deal this year, as it’s entirely possible the regular season-ending showdown could be the deciding factor in either team making the College Football Playoffs.