Notre Dame’s football program is buzzing as the 2024 season comes to a close. Currently, the Fighting Irish have positioned themselves favorably in the College Football Playoff race. Their performance since an unexpected loss to Northern Illinois has reignited discussions about their playoff eligibility.
After that early setback, Notre Dame discovered a new level of play. The team has since embarked on a remarkable nine-game winning streak, demonstrating their dominance throughout the latter part of the season. With an average victory margin of over 30 points, the Irish have left opponents in the dust, showcasing both offensive and defensive prowess.
Statistically, Notre Dame ranks among the best in the nation. The defense has become a fortress, positioned fourth overall in total defense and boasting the top ranking in passing defense. Meanwhile, the Irish offense has been equally impressive, sitting among the top ten for scoring. This combination of explosive offense and stalwart defense paints a picture of a well-rounded team.
As teams around the country grapple with their playoff fates, Notre Dame stands as a quasi-lock for one of the coveted spots. Factors like their strong point differential and impressive wins against ranked opponents bolster their case. Particularly noteworthy is a big win against a competitive Georgia Tech team, adding more credibility to their résumé.
Playing as an independent also provides an edge. The Irish circumvent the potential pitfalls associated with conference championship games, where a loss could derail playoff aspirations. With some chaos in other conferences, Notre Dame’s potential to secure a playoff berth seems increasingly probable, even with a possible setback against a struggling USC team.
Recent trends, such as unexpected losses from prominent SEC teams, enhance Notre Dame’s situation. The reshuffling of potential playoff contenders means that even a close loss in their upcoming rivalry match wouldn’t necessarily exclude them from contention. Observers are keenly watching how the last week of the regular season unfolds.
In essence, this season marks a resurgence for Notre Dame. Their consistency, coupled with a favorable schedule and favorable outcomes elsewhere, aligns them well for playoff contention. As fans anticipate the final round of College Football Playoff Rankings, the spotlight is firmly set on the Fighting Irish.
