The upcoming 12-team playoff is set to kick off with an exciting in-state rivalry as the No. 7 Notre Dame Fighting Irish take on the No. 10 Indiana Hoosiers. This much-anticipated matchup will take place on Friday, December 20, at Notre Dame Stadium, featuring two formidable teams with impressive 11-1 records.
Notre Dame, entering the playoff with a remarkable 10-game winning streak, has demonstrated a potent offensive performance recently, especially in their previous two games where they scored a staggering 98 points combined against Army and Southern California. Quarterback Riley Leonard has showcased his accuracy, registering only eight incompletions over the last two games, signaling a strong commitment to their running game. In particular, running back Jerimiyah Love stands out with an impressive 15 rushing touchdowns this season, placing him among the nation’s elite.
On the other side, Indiana is experiencing a historic season under first-year head coach Curt Cignetti, looking to maintain their momentum. Transfer quarterback Kurtis Rourke has significantly contributed to this success, ranking among the top ten in completion percentage and passing touchdowns. Indiana’s explosive offense ranks second in the nation, highlighted by a season-high 66 points in their most recent game.
This clash between Notre Dame and Indiana not only promises thrilling football but also showcases the remarkable journeys of both teams. As they face off, fans can anticipate a captivating encounter that could further define the legacies of both programs.
Overall, this matchup serves as a testament to the growth and potential of college football, with both teams vying for greater accomplishments in the playoff stage. The stakes are high, and supporters on both sides are eager to witness who will emerge victorious in this rivalry game.