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Notre Dame's CFP Dream: Did They Leave Doubt?
20 Jan
Summary
- Coach Freeman wants Notre Dame to 'leave no doubt' in 2026.
- Team started 0-2 but finished 10-0, missing the CFP.
- Miami's Week 1 win was key in final playoff rankings.
Notre Dame's coach Marcus Freeman has articulated a clear goal for the 2026 season: eliminate any uncertainty about their playoff aspirations. The team's 2025 campaign began with disappointing losses to Miami and Texas A&M. Despite a subsequent ten-game winning streak, Notre Dame finished the season 10-0, only to be narrowly edged out of the College Football Playoff field.
The Hurricanes secured the final playoff spot, largely attributed to their Week 1 victory over Notre Dame. Freeman acknowledged that the team's early-season performance created doubt, which they must overcome in the future. He emphasized that the team did not necessarily deserve a playoff bid over Miami or other strong contenders based on their overall record.
Looking ahead, the Irish are scheduled to face Miami again on November 7, 2026. This upcoming matchup presents an opportunity for Notre Dame to demonstrate progress and perhaps enact a measure of revenge. Coach Freeman's message underscores the importance of consistent performance and decisive wins to ensure future playoff invitations.
