Main Story

Notre Dame faces a season-defining test against No. 1 Miami: the Irish are No. 11 in the first College Football Playoff rankings, just inside the top 12 needed for a guaranteed bid. Notre Dame’s passing game and results against common opponents offer hope, but Miami’s elite rushing defense, potent passing attack and third-down efficiency give the Hurricanes clear advantages in several key matchups.

By the Numbers
  • Notre Dame is No. 11 in the first CFP rankings; Miami is No. 1 in the AP Poll.
  • Miami averages 332.4 passing yards per game, while Notre Dame allows 150.9.
  • Miami allows 60.8 rushing yards per game; Notre Dame averages 186 on the ground.
  • Miami converts 54.5% of third downs; Notre Dame’s defense allows opponents to convert 38.4%.
Yes, But

Miami’s passing defense is a vulnerability: the Hurricanes rank 81st in pass-efficiency defense and 122nd in passing yards allowed. That gives quarterback CJ Carr an opportunity, but Notre Dame’s secondary may be without its best version of Leonard Moore, and the Irish have struggled to generate sacks. Notre Dame’s rushing attack also has potential, but its consistency and coaching commitment remain uncertain.

State of Play
  • Notre Dame enters off a 35-13 win over Navy, holding the Midshipmen 95 rushing yards below their season average.
  • Miami narrowly beat North Carolina, 38-35, while Notre Dame defeated the Tar Heels, 37-26.
  • Both teams handled Stanford decisively: Miami won 45-6, and Notre Dame won 58-7.
What's Next

Notre Dame needs to exploit Miami’s pass-defense weakness while limiting quarterback Darian Mensah and receiver Malachi Toney. Leonard Moore’s health, the Irish pass rush and whether Notre Dame can establish its running game could determine whether the matchup stays close—and whether the Irish strengthen their position in the playoff race.

Bottom Line

Notre Dame has a path to an upset, but it likely depends on turning Miami’s weakest unit into a decisive advantage. With its playoff standing precarious, the Irish can’t afford to waste the opportunity.