This annual inter-squad scrimmage provides fans with a preview of the upcoming Fighting Irish football season. Held each spring at Notre Dame Stadium, it offers an opportunity to observe returning players in new roles and get a first look at incoming freshmen. The event is formatted as a full game, often with modified rules to prioritize player safety and evaluation.
The contest serves multiple critical functions. It allows coaching staff to assess player performance in a game-like environment, evaluate team depth, and experiment with different strategies. For supporters, it represents an early chance to reconnect with the program, generate excitement for the season, and witness potential future stars in action. Its long history contributes to the tradition and pageantry associated with the university’s football program.