Georgia Bulldogs to play Notre Dame Fighting Irish in 2017 and 2019

It is the “dead period” in the world of college football, but on Thursday afternoon, the Georgia Bulldogs announced a two-game “home and home” series that could have a lasting impact on the program. According to the release from the university, their opponent for the games in 2017 and 2019 will be the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

The series will begin on the road for the Bulldogs, as they are set to visit South Bend on September 9, 2017, and the finale will return to Athens for a battle on September 21, 2019. In addition to the specifics of the announcement, both Director of Athletics Greg McGarity and Mark Richt weighed in on the development.

"“This series will generate an overwhelming level of excitement for our student-athletes and supporters,” said McGarity. “We have a tremendous amount of respect for Notre Dame and look forward to the start of this memorable experience.”“Playing Notre Dame will be an honor and a great challenge for us,” said UGA head coach Mark Richt. “I have a lot of respect for the job Coach Kelly is doing there and I’m sure college football fans across the country will enjoy watching our two teams compete.”"

2017 may seem to be a world away, but beginning a partnership with perhaps the most recognizable program in the country is a huge step for the Georgia Bulldogs. It is certainly possible that the pair of games won’t have huge “luster” based on how both teams perform in real time, but for now, it is something undeniably exciting to look forward to in Athens.