Expectations are exceptionally high for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish to secure a coveted berth in the expanded College Football Playoff field. Armed with a talented roster featuring returning quarterback CJ Carr and a formidable defensive unit stacked with star linebackers and secondary anchors, the Fighting Irish enter the season positioned near the top of national preseason polls. While their margin for error remains relatively tight due to high-stakes matchups against premier opponents, their path to the postseason is fully visible if they maintain consistency throughout their schedule.