What is Notre Dame's current ranking?

Notre Dame is currently ranked No. 9 in the College Football Playoff chase.

Who are Notre Dame's key transfer portal additions?

While not named individually, the article highlights that Notre Dame's eight-man transfer portal class has been successful and crucial for the team's performance.

Why is Madden Faraimo important for Notre Dame's defense?

Freshman linebacker Madden Faraimo is stepping into a key role due to an injury to Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, a crucial player for the defense.

Home / Sports / Freeman Focuses Irish on Stanford, Not CFP

Freeman Focuses Irish on Stanford, Not CFP

28 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Notre Dame seeks a crucial win against Stanford to boost CFP rankings.
Transfer portal additions are proving vital for the team's success.
Freshman linebacker Madden Faraimo steps into a key role due to injury.

Freeman Focuses Irish on Stanford, Not CFP

Notre Dame, currently ranked No. 9, is preparing for its final regular-season game against Stanford. Head coach Marcus Freeman is prioritizing his team's focus on this single matchup, downplaying the broader College Football Playoff picture to mitigate external pressure. The Irish have demonstrated consistent performance since mid-season, a critical factor in maintaining their playoff standing through November.

The team's success has been significantly bolstered by its transfer portal additions, who have increasingly contributed vital plays. This group, unlike some previous transfer classes, has shown no outright misses and is poised to make an impact in potential playoff games. Coach Freeman highlighted the importance of every player embracing their role for team glory.

Amidst injuries, freshman linebacker Madden Faraimo is stepping into a more prominent role. With Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa sidelined, Faraimo's contribution is now essential for the defense, particularly on third downs where Viliamu-Asa excelled. Faraimo, who has a prior connection with Viliamu-Asa, is expected to help fill the void.