Notre Dame faces a high-stakes showdown against Southern California with College Football Playoff hopes on the line. After a shocking early-season loss, the Fighting Irish have won nine straight and are one win away from clinching a playoff spot. Head coach Marcus Freeman seeks to solidify his tenure with a defining victory, while Notre Dame aims to shake its reputation for faltering in critical games. Southern California, despite offensive struggles, poses a significant challenge. A win would secure Notre Dame’s elite status and potentially a home playoff game, while a loss could jeopardize their postseason dreams.
