As the College Football Playoff (CFP) looms ever closer, many are eyeing the usual suspects—Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State—as favorites to battle it out for the championship. Yet, there’s one team that often flies under the radar despite consistently showcasing top-tier talent: Notre Dame. Despite the challenges and skepticism that typically surround the Fighting Irish, there are legitimate reasons why they could defy the odds and take home the trophy. Here are five reasons why Notre Dame can win the College Football Playoff:
1. Elite Defense with NFL Talent
Notre Dame has long been known for its strong defensive tradition, and this season is no different. The Fighting Irish have one of the most complete defenses in the country, with a combination of size, speed, and versatility that rivals any other contender. The defensive line is particularly stacked, with potential first-round picks capable of putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and the linebackers are fast enough to cover sideline-to-sideline. While defensive dominance isn’t always enough to win a championship in today’s high-powered offensive game, Notre Dame’s defense can definitely go toe-to-toe with any powerhouse in the playoff. If their defense can lock down potent offenses like those of Georgia or Ohio State, they’ll be a serious contender.
2. A Balanced and Potent Offense
In the past, Notre Dame has struggled with the balance between its offense and defense, but this year, they seem to have found their groove. Quarterback play has been steady, with a mix of veteran leadership and young talent that is showing promise. The running back room is deep, with a variety of backs capable of breaking tackles and gaining crucial yards in key moments. The offensive line is also one of the most experienced and dominant units in the country, creating holes for running backs and providing the quarterback with ample time to make plays. With the offense finding consistency and showing the ability to execute in tight situations, Notre Dame now has the offensive firepower to keep up with any team in the CFP.
3. The Strength of Notre Dame’s Schedule
While the Fighting Irish have traditionally faced a tough schedule, the 2024 season has seen them battle against some of the toughest teams in the country. Their ability to schedule high-profile games, including matchups against top teams like USC, Ohio State, and Clemson, has prepared them well for the intensity of the CFP. With a mixture of conference and non-conference games that push them to their limits, Notre Dame isn’t entering the playoff without significant experience against elite competition. Their tough regular season, while it may have resulted in a few close losses or struggles, has set them up to face the best in the playoff with confidence.
4. The Fighting Irish’s Coaching Legacy
While Notre Dame may not boast the flashy, championship-winning coach that Alabama or Georgia have, head coach Marcus Freeman is quickly establishing himself as one of the brightest minds in college football. His ability to adapt his strategy and focus on recruiting has brought Notre Dame back into the conversation as a national contender. Freeman’s defensive background, combined with his offensive-minded strategy, provides a unique dynamic that allows Notre Dame to adjust on the fly. His poise in big games and his ability to get the most out of his players could be the x-factor that propels the Fighting Irish to a championship.
5. The “Cinderella” Factor
Every year, college football fans love a good underdog story. While Notre Dame has historically been considered a blue-chip program, their recent playoff appearances haven’t been viewed as successful campaigns. This year, however, the Fighting Irish have embraced their status as underdogs, with few picking them to win it all. Sometimes, being the team that no one expects to win is the best position to be in. With less pressure on them and a team determined to prove their worth, Notre Dame can quietly upset top-seeded teams and take advantage of any weaknesses their opponents might have. They’ve played with a chip on their shoulder all season, and if they carry that same mentality into the CFP, they could surprise everyone and capture the championship.
Conclusion
While Notre Dame faces stiff competition from the traditional heavyweights in college football, there are undeniable reasons why they could be the team that breaks the mold in 2024. With elite defensive play, a balanced offense, an intimidating schedule, strong leadership from a rising coach, and the power of the underdog story, Notre Dame is a serious contender for the College Football Playoff title. If they can harness all these factors and execute at the highest level, the Fighting Irish might just bring home their first national title in decades.