Michael Conroy / AP

USC quarterback Matt Leinart could breathe a sigh of relief after beating Notre Dame on Saturday. It seems as though the Trojans are a team of destiny, writes NBCSport.com's John Tamanaha.

Those are moments the Irish and their legions of fans will not soon forget.

Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis had been pointing to this game ever since he accepted the job last year. After getting the Irish off to an impressive 4-1 start and having the luxury of a bye last week, he had his team well prepared and primed to pull the upset.

The Irish gave everything they had, standing toe-to-toe with the two-time defending national champions, never once flinching. It seemed as if would be their day.

Winning streaks are meant to be broken and more often then naught, the big ones get crisply snapped in South Bend. But these Trojans are setting themselves well apart from the norm, even beating back all that Notre Dame holds dear.

They beat the Fighting Irish, clad in their inspiring green jerseys. That’s not supposed to happen. They commandeered the “luck of the Irish,” making it their own instead. That’s unthinkable.

Nevertheless, the unmatched history of the USC-Notre Dame series continues to be built on players like Leinart. He’ll be forever remembered for his two interceptions that gave the Irish a fighting shot at upending the mighty Trojans and even more for his “fortunate fumble” that gave USC new life.

Slide show   The Week in Sports Pictures A kayaker flips out, a racehorse eyes the Triple Crown and more. more photos

Has Pete Carroll made a deal with the devil? Touchdown Jesus certainly might think so.

More news

AP

Slain UConn CB's family wants $5M

CFT: Stabbed to death following an altercation at a school-sponsored dance in October 2009, Jasper Howard‘s parents are seeking significant financial compensation for the parties they believe are at least partly responsible.

CFT: SEC's Slive no fan of plus-one playoff model

Headlines

• Label

Sandusky charity to shut down, transfer programs

Ex-QB Brian Johnson still directing Utes offense

CFT: Miami says it's 'committed to the ACC'

CFT: Clemson would listen to other conferences

CFT: Tennessee TE booted following felony arrest

CFT: Potential Cal starter kicked off team

Friends, fans mourn loss of Stewart

CFT: Ohio St. 'not facing any major ... violations'