Freeman wants to see Notre Dame get a home game in the College Football Playoff.
Following a decisive 35-14 victory over the Virginia Cavaliers, Notre Dame football is currently enjoying an eight-game winning streak. When asked about the possibility of the Fighting Irish hosting another home game this season, which would require advancing in the College Football Playoff rankings, head coach Marcus Freeman expressed his belief that the team deserves that chance, as reported by Pete Sampson of The Athletic.
“What I think doesn’t really matter. Let’s give this program one more opportunity to play in this stadium. My opinion is irrelevant,” Freeman stated.
Notre Dame’s defense was instrumental in the victory, forcing five turnovers from Virginia, four of which led to touchdowns. Quarterback Riley Leonard threw for three touchdowns and added 32 rushing yards, while running back Jeremiyah Love rushed for 137 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries.
However, the game wasn’t without its flaws. Notre Dame converted only 1 of 12 on third downs, incurred nine penalties, and committed two turnovers. After a strong start with 28 points in the first half, the team managed just 7 points in the second half.
Freeman praised the defense for their outstanding performance after the game.
“When your defense plays as well as ours has, it keeps you competitive and in a position to win, even if the offense isn’t as successful initially,” Freeman remarked. “The defense is doing a tremendous job, and the offense is making progress too. Let’s keep working and give this program one more chance to play in this stadium.”
Virginia’s loss brought their season record to 5-5, leaving them at 3-3 in ACC play, which places them seventh in the conference. They will finish their season against No. 14 SMU and then face rival Virginia Tech on the road.
Notre Dame’s strength lies in its passing defense, as they limited Virginia quarterback Anthony Colandrea, who was benched at halftime, to just 8-of-21 passing for 69 yards and three interceptions. The Fighting Irish currently lead the nation in pass-efficiency defense, echoing their success from last season.
Before the game against Virginia, ESPN’s Pat McAfee praised Notre Dame’s chances for the College Football Playoff (CFP).
“I think the immediate response might be to say no to Notre Dame lacking any margin for error, but they’ve secured two wins against Top 25 teams, which is significant. This will be important when the CFP considers strength of schedule. And we all know they came into this year without a path to become a conference champion since they’re an independent team.
“Since their loss to Northern Illinois, Riley Leonard has thrown for 21 total touchdowns and only one interception. With back-to-back games scoring 50 points, they’re showcasing some impressive football.”
Currently, Notre Dame is projected to be ranked No. 7 in The Athletic’s College Football Playoff predictions. They have a 74% chance of making the playoffs, a 51% chance of hosting a playoff game, and a 5% chance of winning the championship.
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