Rivalry week is in full swing this week, but the weather might turn out to be a villain for an important clash. Notre Dame is hoping to continue its winning streak, while USC will want to solidify its chances for the playoffs with this game. But dark clouds threaten to spoil the fun in this much-awaited matchup between the old rivals.

It is set to be a rainy game today for USC and Notre Dame, according to the weather forecast. Per AccuWeather, there is a 98% chance of precipitation. However, the rain is expected to give way to thunderstorms later in the evening, 58% chance of that happening, but the weather can turn unruly. If thunderstorm protocols are enacted, the game will be delayed. But if the weather offers no respite, there is a slight chance of the game being called off. It’s also going to be a really cold night, with temperatures dropping below 70.

The National Weather Service predicts that thunderstorms can happen after 5 pm. Unfortunately, the Notre Dame clash is going to be a night game, set for a 7:30 pm ET kickoff. If lightning occurs within an 8-mile radius of the stadium, then the play gets suspended immediately. Meaning a 30-minute delay will be observed. The procedure repeats if another instance of lightning follows this delay. That means there’s a good chance the duration of this game pushes the limits of those who deem a cancellation.

Along with the rain, players will also have to battle high wind gusts, which can hit 25 mph. This is a crucial night for Notre Dame, as this is a huge chance for the Irish to still remain in playoff contention. This is the second time the weather threatens to be a disruptor for Marcus Freeman this season. The Notre Dame-Miami clash also saw a severe weather forecast. However, the weather turns out to be, the rain is definitely going to have a hand in how both sides fare.

Notre Dame has ‘plans’ in case the weather takes control of the game

Both the Trojans and the Fighting Irish will have their work cut out today, as they are likely to have a wet turf. But Notre Dame is prepared. “There could be delays, and so we’re aware. We have plans and then we have to adapt and adjust. That’s more than anything,” Freeman told the press ahead of the game. With nearly guaranteed rainfall, throwing and holding onto the ball will be a challenge for both Notre Dame and USC tonight.

Turnovers can be a serious problem for both offenses tonight. A slippery ball is easier for the defense to pluck out of players’ hands. USC’s Bishop Fitzgerald already produced 5 interceptions this season, while Leonard Moore comes in with 3. The strong winds are definitely going to affect long throws, which gives more than enough leeway for defenses to capitalize on. Rain should make the defenses work easier tonight.

This is a key game this season, so both Freeman and Lincoln Riley are expected to hang on till the end, even in such harsh situations. Also, this might be the last time Notre Dame and USC face off against each other, as the contract for an extension of the series is still in limbo. But more is at stake for the home team tonight, who are trying to retrace their steps to the Natty. Being 4-2 makes this a crucial night for Marcus Freeman, who is facing an elite opponent in Riley’s Trojans.