Why did Notre Dame miss the 2025 College Football Playoff?

Notre Dame missed the playoff due to early-season losses to Miami and Texas A&M, despite finishing the regular season 10-0.

What is Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman's mantra for 2026?

Coach Freeman's mantra for the 2026 season is 'Leave no doubt.'

When does Notre Dame play Miami next?

Notre Dame is scheduled to play Miami again on November 7, 2026.

Home / Sports / Notre Dame's CFP Dream: Did They Leave Doubt?

Notre Dame's CFP Dream: Did They Leave Doubt?

20 Jan

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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 CFP Dream: Did They Leave Doubt?

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.