Tag: CJ Carr

Notre Dame vs Wisconsin 2026 Season Opener Preview, Predictions and Keys to Victory

irishranter August 31, 2026 2026 Games Tagged CJ Carr, Notre Dame vs Wisconsin, Shamrock Series

Notre Dame vs Wisconsin Predictions 2026 Shamrock Series

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team begin the season this Sunday, September 6 and it will be at a historic football stadium.

Notre Dame will take on the Wisconsin Badgers in the 2026 Shamrock Series at historic Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET, with the game airing nationally on NBC and Peacock.

This will be a particularly memorable Shamrock Series matchup because it marks the first time Notre Dame has played at Lambeau Field. The stadium has hosted very few college football games, making the setting even more special. Lambeau also has a unique connection to Notre Dame: it was named after Curly Lambeau, a former Notre Dame player who went on to found the Green Bay Packers.

The Irish enter the season ranked No. 4 in the Associated Press Top 25, while Wisconsin comes into the matchup as a significant underdog.

For Notre Dame, however, this isn’t simply an exhibition in a historic stadium. It is the first opportunity to establish the identity of a team with legitimate College Football Playoff aspirations.

A Huge Stage for the Season Opener

There aren’t many better ways to begin a season than playing at Lambeau Field.

The Shamrock Series has become one of Notre Dame’s signature traditions, allowing the Irish to take their program to unique locations around the country. This year’s matchup takes that concept to another level.

Lambeau Field is one of the most recognizable stadiums in American sports, and the atmosphere should be tremendous. Wisconsin fans will undoubtedly make their presence felt, creating an environment that could feel considerably different from a typical neutral-site game.

Notre Dame is officially the home team for the Shamrock Series matchup, but the Irish shouldn’t expect to have a traditional home-field advantage.

That makes the opening few minutes particularly important.

Notre Dame Needs a Fast Start

One of the biggest questions surrounding Notre Dame entering the season is whether the Irish can avoid a sluggish opening performance.

There is too much talent on this roster to spend the first quarter trying to figure things out.

Quarterback CJ Carr returns to lead the offense, and he has been named one of Notre Dame’s four captains for the 2026 season. Joining him as captains are linebacker Drayk Bowen, safety Adon Shuler and wide receiver Jordan Faison.

Carr’s ability to settle into the game quickly could be one of the most important factors in the opener.

Notre Dame doesn’t necessarily need to score on every possession, but the Irish need to establish control early. A couple of long, sustained drives would go a long way toward settling the team down and taking some of the energy out of the Wisconsin crowd.

Control the Line of Scrimmage

If Notre Dame wants to make a statement, it needs to dominate the line of scrimmage.

Wisconsin has traditionally built its identity around physical football, particularly in the running game. But the Badgers enter 2026 with a significantly reworked roster and a number of new starters.

Wisconsin also has concerns along the offensive line, where injuries have limited the development of the starting unit during fall camp.

That could give Notre Dame an opportunity.

The Irish defensive front needs to create consistent pressure without having to send extra defenders on every down. If Notre Dame can stop Wisconsin’s running game and force the Badgers into obvious passing situations, the Irish defense should have a significant advantage.

On the other side of the ball, Notre Dame’s offensive line needs to establish the running game.

A balanced attack would make life much easier for Carr and prevent Wisconsin from simply loading up against the pass.

Don’t Let Wisconsin Hang Around

This is perhaps the biggest danger for Notre Dame.

The Irish are expected to win this game comfortably, but Wisconsin has nothing to lose.

The Badgers are entering the season with plenty of questions, and an early lead against a highly ranked Notre Dame team would completely change the complexion of the game.

Notre Dame cannot afford turnovers, busted coverages or unnecessary penalties that allow Wisconsin to remain within striking distance.

The longer the Badgers stay in the game, the more pressure shifts onto Notre Dame.

A touchdown drive late in the first half or early in the third quarter could be the difference between a competitive game and a comfortable Notre Dame victory.

Notre Dame’s Defense Could Be the Difference

While much of the preseason attention will naturally focus on Carr and the Irish offense, I believe the defense has a chance to determine how this game plays out.

Wisconsin appears to be trying to establish a more balanced identity under head coach Luke Fickell, and the Badgers have added depth and new pieces throughout the roster.

Notre Dame needs to make Wisconsin one-dimensional.

If the Irish can stop the run, force Wisconsin into third-and-long situations and create pressure, Notre Dame should have opportunities to generate turnovers.

The defensive leadership of Bowen and Shuler will also be important in an unusual season-opening environment.

The Shamrock Series Factor

The location makes this game unlike any other contest on Notre Dame’s 2026 schedule.

The Irish aren’t simply playing Wisconsin. They’re playing Wisconsin at Lambeau Field.

Notre Dame and Wisconsin last met in 2021, when the Irish defeated the Badgers 41-13 at Soldier Field in Chicago. Notre Dame currently leads the all-time series 9-2-6.

This year’s matchup is the second installment of the planned Shamrock Series series between the programs, and the first time Notre Dame will take the field inside Lambeau.

The setting should provide plenty of distractions throughout the weekend. Notre Dame has already embraced the Lambeau theme with special Shamrock Series uniforms inspired in part by the Packers’ iconic look.

Once kickoff arrives, though, the Irish need to forget about the spectacle and focus on football.

My Notre Dame vs. Wisconsin Prediction

On paper, this is a difficult matchup for Wisconsin.

Notre Dame has considerably higher expectations entering the season, returns an established quarterback in Carr, and possesses the overall depth needed to eventually wear down the Badgers.

Wisconsin’s best chance is to make this a physical, low-scoring game, control the clock and force Notre Dame into mistakes.

I don’t expect that to happen.

I expect Wisconsin to play hard early, particularly with the energy of playing at Lambeau Field. Notre Dame may need a little time to settle into the game, but the Irish should gradually take control.

Prediction: Notre Dame 34, Wisconsin 13

I expect Notre Dame to lead by somewhere around a touchdown or two at halftime before pulling away in the second half.

A comfortable victory would give Marcus Freeman’s team exactly what it needs heading into the rest of September: confidence, momentum and evidence that the Irish are capable of playing up to their preseason expectations.

What Notre Dame Needs to Do to Beat Wisconsin

Start fast
Notre Dame cannot allow Wisconsin to build confidence in the opening quarter.
Stop the run
Make Wisconsin throw the football and put the game in the hands of the Badgers’ passing attack.
Protect CJ Carr
Give Carr time to operate and avoid putting the offense into predictable passing situations.
Establish the running game
A productive ground attack would control the clock and open up opportunities downfield.
Win the turnover battle
The easiest way for Wisconsin to make this a close game is for Notre Dame to give it extra possessions.
Avoid penalties
Playing at a neutral site means Notre Dame can’t afford to give Wisconsin free yards.
Finish the game
If Notre Dame takes control in the second half, it needs to step on the gas rather than allowing Wisconsin back into the contest.

Notre Dame vs. Wisconsin FAQ

When is the Notre Dame vs.Wisconsin game?
Notre Dame will play Wisconsin on Sunday, September 6, 2026.
Where is Notre Dame vs. Wisconsin being played?
The game will be played at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, home of the Green Bay Packers. It will be Notre Dame’s first game at the historic stadium.
Is Notre Dame vs. Wisconsin a Shamrock Series game?
Yes. The matchup is part of the 2026 Shamrock Series, Notre Dame’s annual neutral-site football event.
What time does Notre Dame vs. Wisconsin start?
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. CT).
What channel is broadcasting the game?
The game will be televised nationally on NBC and streamed on Peacock.
Who is favored to win Notre Dame vs. Wisconsin?
Notre Dame enters the game as a heavy favorite. Current preseason odds have the Irish favored by roughly 20.5 points.
When was the last time Notre Dame played Wisconsin?
The teams last met in 2021 at Soldier Field in Chicago. Notre Dame won that game 41-13.
Who is Notre Dame’s quarterback in 2026?
CJ Carr is expected to lead the Notre Dame offense in 2026. Carr is also one of the team’s four captains.
What does Notre Dame need to do to beat Wisconsin?
The Irish need to control the line of scrimmage, stop Wisconsin’s running game, protect Carr, establish their own rushing attack and avoid turnovers and penalties.
Who will win Notre Dame vs. Wisconsin?
Notre Dame is my pick to win, 34-13. I expect Wisconsin to compete early, but the Irish should have too much depth and talent to keep the game close for four quarters.

Final Thoughts

Notre Dame couldn’t have asked for a more memorable opening to the 2026 season.

A Sunday night game at Lambeau Field. A Shamrock Series matchup. A historic opponent in Wisconsin. A national television audience. And a Notre Dame team entering the season with College Football Playoff expectations.

The Irish need to treat it like more than a spectacle.

If Notre Dame can play disciplined football, control the line of scrimmage and avoid the mistakes that can allow an underdog to hang around, the Irish should leave Green Bay with a convincing victory.

And if Notre Dame does exactly that, the 2026 season could get off to a very promising start.

Go Irish! ☘️

Stakes, Context & What’s on the Line

irishranter November 27, 2025 2025 Games, Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Jadarian Price, Jeremiyah Love

As the regular season finale, this game is more than just another Saturday night — for Notre Dame, it’s a final audition before postseason selection. The Fighting Irish (9–2) head west to confront Stanford (4–7) at Stanford Stadium in Palo Alto. A win likely locks up a spot in the College Football Playoff.

For Stanford, this is a chance to end the season on a high note. The Cardinal are coming off a morale-boosting victory where they reclaimed the Axe in their rivalry game against California — but beating a top-10 Notre Dame team is a tall order.

The all-time series favors Notre Dame, and the Irish have taken the last two meetings — including a lopsided 49–7 win in 2024.

Key Players to Watch

CJ Carr — As Notre Dame’s quarterback, Carr has carried much of the offensive load this season. His composure and decision-making under pressure will be critical if the Cardinal try to cause an upset.
Jadarian Price — While not always in the spotlight, Price’s contributions — whether on special teams, defense, or key rotational snaps — could be icing on the cake if Notre Dame builds a lead and begins mixing in depth.
Jeremiyah Love A dynamic playmaker for Notre Dame, Love presents a dual threat: a strong running game and the ability to catch or break off big plays. With a playoff berth on the line, he’ll be hungry to finish the regular season on a note that boosts his draft stock and team momentum.

Given Stanford’s defensive profile this season, especially versus the run and pass, the Irish will likely lean heavily on Carr and Love to control tempo and avoid turnovers.

The Kickoff Time: An Extremely Late Show

One of the most talked-about (and criticized) aspects of this game is the kickoff time: 10:30 p.m. Eastern Time (7:30 p.m. PT). That means most of the country will be settling in late at night — at a time when many fans, especially on the East Coast, will be pushing past bedtime. The broadcast is on ESPN.

Frankly, it’s a bad time slot for many fans. For college-football loyalists who’ve stayed up all season, fine — but for casual viewers, younger fans, or anyone with early Sunday plans, it’s a tough sell. The late hour risks suppressing viewership and dampening the energy for a game that could have far greater hype under better timing.

How the Game Could Play Out

Given the gap between the two teams in performance this season — especially offensively and defensively — this feels like a one-sided affair. Notre Dame enters averaging far more points per game than Stanford allows.

Expect Notre Dame to control the line of scrimmage, lean on Carr’s arm and Love’s versatility, and rotate in younger players once the game is clearly theirs. Stanford may try to rally with emotion — riding off the confidence from their Cal win — but realistically, the Irish are equipped to shut down any hope of an upset.

Prediction — And the Final Score

I see this ending with Notre Dame pulling away comfortably.

Final score prediction: Notre Dame 38, Stanford 10.

Notre Dame gets the win, secures the playoff berth, and leaves little doubt about their dominance. They’ll cover the spread, and perhaps enjoy a celebration — though the late kickoff time will blur what should be a triumphant night.

Irish vs. Orange: What’s at Stake

irishranter November 20, 2025 2025 Games, Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Jadarian Price, Jeremiyah Love

Notre Dame vs Syracuse Orange Predictions 2025

As the No. 9 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (8–2) host the Syracuse Orange (3–7) in South Bend, the stakes feel both routine and weighty. On paper, this should be a tune-up: Syracuse’s season has spiraled, and Notre Dame is pressing toward a potential College Football Playoff berth. But for the Irish, complacency is never an option — especially on Senior Day, when veterans like Jeremiyah Love get a final regular-season bow in Notre Dame Stadium.

Syracuse, meanwhile, is playing for pride. With their season already slipping away after six straight losses, Coach Fran Brown knows his team is the underdog in every sense. Still, he’s embraced the challenge, calling this a chance to compete against a national contender.

Key Players to Watch

CJ Carr – Notre Dame’s Steady Hand
The young QB has been a big reason for Notre Dame’s consistency. He’s completing around 67.3 % of his passes, has thrown 21 touchdowns so far, and only six interceptions. Carr isn’t just a game-manager — he gives the Irish enough arm to make plays, but he’s careful enough to avoid self-inflicted damage. Against Syracuse, he should be comfortable leading Notre Dame’s balanced attack.
Jeremiyah Love – The Workhorse
On the ground, Love has been dominant. He’s averaging 113.5 rushing yards per game, and his nose for the end zone is uncanny. He’s scored in most games this season and remains a constant threat. With Syracuse’s defense struggling, Love could easily break off some big runs and control the tempo.
Jadarian Price – The Complement
Love gets a lot of attention, but Price has quietly carved out a huge role too. He’s run for 589 yards and 9 touchdowns this season. Price gives Notre Dame a two-headed rushing attack that defenses must account for. When Love needs a breather, Price slides in effectively to keep the ground game humming.

Why Notre Dame Should Dominate — But Beware the Trap

From a numbers perspective, Notre Dame enters this game heavily favored: the spread is a whopping −35.5 in their favor. Betting markets clearly expect a blowout, and for good reason:

Balanced Offense: With Carr managing the passing game and Love/Price powering the run, ND can script drives that chew clock and wear down Syracuse.
Syracuse’s Struggles: The Orange are very vulnerable — defensively, they’ve given up a lot, and offensively, they haven’t been consistent
Motivation: It’s Senior Day, so expect Notre Dame to bring energy and possibly even get some backups in later to close out the home slate.

That said, you never want to fully count out a college team playing for pride. Syracuse could swing momentum with a special teams play, a turnover, or a short-lived spark. Still, Notre Dame’s margin for error is wide, and they’ll likely treat this game as a “win and don’t embarrass yourself” scenario — but they should be able to do both.

Prediction & Final Score

Putting it all together: Notre Dame’s offense should flow, Syracuse’s defense shouldn’t have enough answers, and the Irish will likely dominate the line of scrimmage.

Final Prediction: Notre Dame 49, Syracuse 7.

Notre Dame vs Navy Predictions

irishranter November 6, 2025 2025 Games, Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Jadarian Price, Jeremiyah Love

The Fighting Irish (6-2) play host at home to Navy this Saturday evening in South Bend. According to the first release of the College Football Playoff Selection Committee rankings, Notre Dame checks in at No. 10 in the nation.

They’re coming off solid momentum, while Navy brings a very disciplined rushing attack and the desire to knock off a highly regarded opponent.

Strengths & Storylines

Notre Dame’s offense has dynamic talents. At quarterback, freshman CJ Carr has shown flashes of poise and big-play potential.
In the backfield, the Irish boast a powerful 1-2 punch: junior running backs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price. Love is the more boisterous big-play threat, while Price complements him with consistency.
Love rushed at an average of 6.3 yards per carry in 2025 (through the data available) and has already tallied 11 rushing TDs this season according to ESPN’s stat lines.
Price brings his own numbers: in 2025 he has rushed for 521 yards with eight touchdowns and a 6.1 ypc average, per ESPN.
On the other side, Navy’s identity is clear: a dominant ground-game, disciplined clock management, and opportunities to make mistakes for the opponent.
The matchup pits Notre Dame’s balanced offensive weapons against Navy’s run-heavy army of plays; the question is whether Notre Dame can impose its will and avoid being bogged down in Navy’s tempo.

What’s at stake

For Notre Dame: Maintain momentum, keep playoff hopes alive, and demonstrate consistency. Being ranked top 10 puts pressure on them to perform.
For Navy: An upset win would be a banner moment — no shame in the attempt, and they’ll be ready for a physical grind.
For the fans: This game has rivalry energy, national relevance (because of the ranking and the spotlight), and the kind of feel-good moment that Notre Dame programs aim for.

What Notre Dame Must Do To Win

For the Irish to come out on top, several things must happen:

Stay disciplined in the run-defense and force Navy into uncomfortable passing situations. If Navy can’t reliably establish the ground game, the Irish will be in control. Notre Dame must stay gap-sound, tackle well, and avoid big-chunk runs.
Let the offense lean on Carr, Love and Price but protect the football. With CJ Carr at QB, Notre Dame has fresh legs and big play upside. But turnovers, sacks, or stalled drives will play right into Navy’s rhythm. The Irish should let Carr manage the game while the backs do the heavy lifting.
- Love: his big-play ability must be showcased—he’s not just a power back but can produce explosive runs.
- Price: by maintaining efficiency and keeping defenses honest, he prevents the opposition from keying exclusively on Love.
Control the tempo and field position. If Notre Dame can mix up plays—establish the run with Price and Love, occasionally open it with Carr’s arm—they’ll keep Navy off balance. Special teams, too, must not give away hidden yards or momentum swings.
Win the red-zone battle and capitalize on opportunities. When the Irish get close, they must convert drives into touchdowns (not just field goals) and avoid giving Navy short fields or momentum through mistakes.
Avoid letting Navy’s grind-style wear them out or shift the narrative. A physical opponent like Navy can force misfires late in the game if Notre Dame becomes sloppy. The Irish must stay sharp, stay fresh, and execute fundamentals late in the second half.

Prediction & Final Score

Given the matchup dynamics, Notre Dame has the edge. They have the deeper roster, high-ceiling offense, and the ranking momentum. If they execute, I expect them to cover and win fairly comfortably.

Final Score Prediction: Notre Dame 34, Navy 17

I lean toward a mid-30s scoring night for Notre Dame, with Navy managing a decent ground-gain total but not enough explosive plays to keep pace.

Ranking Note

As mentioned above, Notre Dame is currently ranked No. 10 in the first 2025 College Football Playoff rankings.

That means they are in the mix for a playoff spot — but every game matters now. A slip in this one could cost them significantly in seeding and national perception.

Notre Dame vs Boston College Prediction (Nov 1, 2025) – Irish Look to Stay Hot on the Road

irishranter October 29, 2025 2025 Games, Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Jadarian Price, Jeremiyah Love

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish hit the road for a rivalry showdown with the Boston College Eagles at Alumni Stadium in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. The “Holy War” always carries extra emotion, but this year’s matchup has added importance — Notre Dame is looking to strengthen its postseason resume, while Boston College is eager to pull off a statement win at home.

Game Preview

Notre Dame enters this contest with momentum and confidence, led by sophomore quarterback CJ Carr, who continues to mature as one of college football’s most composed young passers. The Irish offense has found its rhythm thanks to a balanced attack that mixes precision passing with a powerful ground game.

That ground game is anchored by the dynamic duo of Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price, two running backs who bring different but complementary skill sets. Love’s breakaway speed and ability to bounce runs outside have given defenses headaches, while Price’s patience and vision between the tackles keep the chains moving. Together, they provide the kind of one-two punch that can wear down opposing defenses — and that could be the key to winning on the road in Chestnut Hill.

Boston College, meanwhile, has shown toughness all season. The Eagles play fundamentally sound football, rarely beat themselves, and have a defense built to frustrate high-powered offenses. Their ability to pressure the quarterback and force turnovers could keep this game close early, especially with the energy of their home crowd behind them.

What Notre Dame Needs to Do to Win

Establish the Run Early
Notre Dame’s success on offense will start with the ground game. Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price need to get rolling early to control tempo, take pressure off CJ Carr, and keep Boston College’s defense honest. When the Irish can run effectively, their play-action game becomes lethal.
Win the Line of Scrimmage
Both sides of the ball will hinge on physical play in the trenches. The offensive line must protect Carr and open holes, while the defensive front needs to disrupt Boston College’s rhythm and force them into third-and-long situations.
Protect the Football
Turnovers in hostile territory can flip momentum fast. Notre Dame must stay clean offensively, especially when facing a defense that thrives on takeaways.
Stay Disciplined on Defense
Boston College will test Notre Dame’s patience with short passes and power runs. The Irish defense needs to tackle well and prevent the big plays that can energize the home crowd.
Convert in the Red Zone
Settling for field goals won’t be enough. Notre Dame needs to finish drives with touchdowns — an area that has improved lately but must stay sharp against a scrappy Eagles defense.

X-Factors: CJ Carr’s Poise and the Irish Backfield

CJ Carr’s ability to stay composed in tough environments will be tested once again. His decision-making, combined with the explosiveness of Love and Price, gives Notre Dame the tools to control this game offensively. Expect Offensive Coordinator Mike Denbrock to lean on the run early before letting Carr take calculated shots downfield.

Prediction

Boston College will compete hard — they always do when Notre Dame comes to town — but the Irish have too much balance and too many playmakers on both sides of the ball. After a tight first half, Notre Dame’s depth and running game should take over late.

Final Score Prediction:
Notre Dame 31, Boston College 17

The Irish handle business on the road, powered by strong performances from CJ Carr, Jeremiyah Love, and Jadarian Price, staying firmly in the postseason conversation heading into November.

Shamrocks and Swords: A Rivalry Rekindled in the Rain – Notre Dame vs. USC Preview

irishranter October 17, 2025 2025 Games, Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Jadarian Price, Jeremiyah Love

Ah, the USC-Notre Dame rivalry. It’s like Thanksgiving dinner with your in-laws: filled with history, disputed arguments, and at least one uncle who claims the good old days were superior. But unlike in-law disagreements, this one gets settled on the field under the shadow of the golden dome. Tonight, Oct. 18, 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC, No. 13 Fighting Irish (4-2) host the No. 20 Trojans (5-1) in South Bend. With playoff aspirations dangling like a leprechaun’s gold at the end of the rainbow, this Shamrock vs. Trojan showdown could be a season-saver – or a heartbreak hotel for a defeated team.

The weather forecast? Mid-50s, gusty winds to 35 mph, and a 60% chance of rain, maybe with thunderstorms. Search for a sloppy, slide-rule affair where footing will be more crucial than finesse. Notre Dame’s pristine grass may turn into a slip-n-slide, but the Irish adore such situations – remember their 2024 mud-bath miracle against rain-soaked Army. USC, having just thumped Michigan (31-13) in the arid desert domination, might have the elements as hostile as a Trojan purist in Bloomington.

The Irish: From Stumble to Surge

Notre Dame’s season got off on a disaster blind date: losses to Miami (28-17 heartbreak) and Purdue (24-20 on a last-second field goal) left the Irish at 0-2 and Marcus Freeman’s seat warmer than a South Bend winter. But, oh, how things have changed. Four straight wins – including last week’s 36-7 romp over NC State – have the Fighting Irish purring like an oiled-up Touchdown Jesus.

Freshman phenom quarterback C.J. Carr has really taken off this season. Against the Wolfpack, he carved through the secondary for 342 yards and two touchdowns on 19-of-31 passing, showing poise beyond his years. The accuracy of Carr (10.3 yards per score, 13 TDs to three interceptions) goes well with a backfield defense nightmare: Jeremiyah Love (86 yards, two touchdowns vs. NC State) and Jadarian Price are thunder-and-lightning with a 5.2 yards-per-carry rate. Tight end Eli Raridon (109 yards on seven catches last week) provides the vertical mismatch, and the defense – which used to be sieve-like – has become shutdown unit, limiting opponents to 27 points over the last three games.

Freeman’s “outphysical” creed also rings true in the backyard, where Notre Dame is 18-3 its last 21. But there remain unsettling questions: Can Carr hold up against USC’s pass rush? And will the secondary, having witnessed high-scoring offenses, hold up to the Trojans’ air attack?

The Trojans: Desert Storm Hits the Midwest

Lincoln Riley’s USC squad is the pinnacle of “win ugly.” A 5-1 record masks a rollercoaster: blowouts of Missouri State and Georgia Southern, gritty 28-24 escape in Illinois, and that declaratory 31-13 whipping of Michigan. Jayden Maiava, erstwhile UNLV transfer and Trojan savior, is lighting it up like it’s in his genes – 78.1% completion vs. the Wolverines for 265 yards, two TDs, and an interception. He’s second nationally in passer rating among qualifiers with 100+ attempts.

The arms? Elite. Makai Lemon (No. 1 in the nation in Power Four receiving yards) and Ja’Kobi Lane (313 yards, two TDs) are a pair that thrive on chunk plays, and walk-on RB King Miller stepped in big with 158 rushing yards against Michigan with stars Waymond Jordan and Eli Sanders out injured. USC is third nationally in scoring (45.5 PPG) and passing yards (1,955), a testament to Riley’s scheme humming like a highly refined Ferrari.

Defensively, of course? It’s the Wild West. The Trojans are 104th in rushing success rate defense and have already surrendered four turnovers in their last two games. Road woes persist – 0-5 in non-California true road games vs. ranked foes under Riley – and South Bend’s cold might catch their secondary napping by Carr’s accuracy.

Key Matchups: Where the Game Will Be Won or Lost

Irish Run Game vs. USC Front Seven: The Irish ground game (210 yards, two TDs against USC last season) might take advantage of the Trojans’ 104th-rated rush defense. If Love and Price rip for 150+ yards, USC’s clock-chewing fantasy ends.
Maiava-Lemon Connection vs. ND Secondary: Lemon’s big-play potential (18 receptions, 339 yards, two TDs) against a Notre Dame secondary that has limited opponents to just 180 passing yards a game lately. One big play – a 50-yard pass – could shift the momentum.
Rainy Day Turnover Battle: Both QBs are turnover wizards in crunch time (Maiava: one INT against Michigan; Carr: one vs. NC State). Whoever picks up two-plus takeaways wins by double digits. Notre Dame’s +4 turnover margin in wins screams edge here.
Special Teams Slop: Kicking in the rain and wind? Notre Dame’s Noah Burnette (an improvement over last year’s misfires) versus USC’s new kicker Caden Chittenden. A blown field goal could be the killer.

This ain’t a game; it’s a referendum on the playoffs. Notre Dame wants a resume-enhancing win to vault into the Top 10; USC wants a statement road victory to silence Big Ten doubters. Rivalry precedent is in the Irish’s favor (last two: ND 48-20 in 2023, 66-7 in 2022? Uh, no – that was a typo on my notes; in reality, ND’s won three straight by an average of 20), but the Trojans’ offense cries out upset potential.

Score Prediction: USC 24, Notre Dame 34

The Irish finish strong behind its running game and home cooking, hanging in there against a gallant Trojan offense. USC scrapes through three quarters – Maiava cuts for 280 yards and two touchdowns – but Miller can’t keep up with Love’s explosion in the mud, and a late pick-six seals it. Notre Dame lays the 9.5, total goes over 61.5 in a shootout turned slopfest. Playoff hopes? Irish are alive; Trojans are limping.

What Notre Dame Needs to Do to Win

To hoist that Victory March trophy, Freeman’s strategy is simple but execution-oriented:

Pound the Rock Early: Feed Love and Price 30+ carries. Control possession (aim for 35 minutes time of possession) to keep Maiava on the sidelines. USC’s defense wears out after 60 snaps – ND needs to take advantage of that.
Protect Carr, Pressure Maiava: Move Carr to clean pockets to get speed off to Raridon and Fields. Edge pass rushers like Drayk Bowen (five sacks) blitz aggressively on defense; USC allows 2.1 sacks per contest when blitzed.
Seize the Trenches in the Elements: Use home-field mud supremacy. Space tackle to limit Lemon’s YAC; force USC into self-apparent passing downs where ND’s 25th-ranked run D shines.
Zero Self-Inflicted Wounds: No turnovers, no penalties (ND’s were flagged 7.2 times per contest). USC’s special teams must pin them deep – punter Bryce McFerson’s leg is a weapon.

Do those things, and the Irish duplicate their 2024 dominance. Either way, it’s must-watch TV – because in this rivalry, the only sure bet is drama.

Notre Dame vs. Boise State: October 4, 2025 Game Predictions

irishranter October 1, 2025 2025 Games, Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Notre Dame vs Boise State

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are heading into their October 4th matchup against the Boise State Broncos with a sense of curiosity and urgency. After experiencing a chaotic start to the 2025 season, the Irish are looking to reestablish themselves as an elite-level contender before the meat of their schedule starts to heat up. Boise State, on the other hand, comes with its trademark toughness, discipline, and ability to thrive under the national spotlight. This is not just any other Saturday in South Bend—it has the makings of a turning-point game.

What’s Riding

For Notre Dame, this is a “must-show” game. The Irish have the talent, spearheaded by young quarterback CJ Carr, whose poise still impresses even in difficult situations. Boise State won’t be intimidated by the lights of Notre Dame Stadium; they’re used to the big stage and have made a reputation for themselves by slaying college football giants. Should the Irish take this match-up lightly or make early mistakes, the Broncos are capable of keeping it close and putting pressure on the Irish down the stretch.

Keys to Victory for Notre Dame

Win the Battle Up Front – Notre Dame’s offensive line has been inconsistent this season. If they give CJ Carr time, the Irish can exploit Boise’s secondary with wide receiver speed. Getting the run going early will also be essential so as not to be one-dimensional.
Defensive Discipline – Boise State loves to use motion, misdirection, and play-action to create big plays. Notre Dame’s linebackers and safeties need to stay disciplined and not over-pursue. Not giving up explosive plays will not allow the Broncos to gain confidence.
Red Zone Efficiency – Field goals won’t cut it in this game. When the Irish reach the red zone, they must finish drives with touchdowns. CJ Carr’s ability to improvise will come in handy when the field gets condensed.
Control the Tempo – Boise thrives when games become frenetic. If Notre Dame dictates the tempo and forces the Broncos to go on long, grinding drives, it will be to the Irish’s liking.

Prediction

This has the makings of a spirited fight. Boise State does not back down, and their execution will test Notre Dame’s focus. But with CJ Carr continuing to develop and Notre Dame’s defense stepping up when it matters, the Irish should be able to have enough to create separation in the second half.

Final Score Prediction: Notre Dame 31, Boise State 21

Notre Dame fans should expect some nail-biting early, but if the Irish follow the script—keep Carr on his feet, play smart football on defense, and finish in the red zone—they’ll come away with a much-needed victory under the South Bend lights.

Irish Eyes Were Smiling: Notre Dame’s Historic 56-13 Drubbing of Arkansas Lights Up Fayetteville

irishranter September 29, 2025 2025 Games Tagged CJ Carr, Jeremiyah Love

What a week makes in the wild world of college football. Only a week after laboring to survive in an ugly but eventually winning performance that left fans questioning, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish arrived in Fayetteville, Arkansas, on Saturday, September 27, 2025, with fire in their eyes and something to demonstrate. Against a Razorbacks team hungry for a marquee SEC upset, the No. 22 Irish didn’t just win—they destroyed. In a 56-13 drubbing that felt more victory lap than battle, Notre Dame introduced the world to why they’re perennial contenders. This wasn’t a bounce-back; this was a rebirth.

Here’s the setting: Razorback Stadium, 76,000 Hog-calling fans expecting a dogfight. The game gets underway, and Arkansas—emboldened by a couple of early-season honors—strikes first on a 39-yard Scott Starzyk field goal, silencing the Irish doubters for a short-lived 3-0 lead. But how the tables quickly turned. Insert freshman quarterback CJ Carr, Michigan’s golden boy who played a game of Tommy Rees on steroids. Tying a Notre Dame freshman record with *four* touchdown passes, Carr sliced and diced the Razorbacks’ secondary like it was a Thanksgiving turkey. His first strike? A precision 7-yard dart to Jeremiyah Love, the dynamic back who was everywhere on this day. Love, in a performance for the ages, hauled in two TD receptions *and* trucked in two rushing touchdowns, including a sneakily impressive 1-yard plunge that sent the Notre Dame sideline erupting. It was 14-3 after the first quarter, and the Hogs were already gassed.

The second quarter? Pure chaos for Arkansas coach Sam Pittman. Notre Dame’s offense, which had sputtered in fits and starts earlier this season, suddenly purr along like a precision machine. Carr threw a gorgeous 35-yard bomb to Jadarian Price for six, then capped a wild sequence with a 23-yard laser to Will Pauling. And who can forget the pooch punt deep in Irish territory—a bold call by Marcus Freeman that worked out and kept the chains moving, causing more misery to the home team. Arkansas did manage a 49-yard field goal to make it 28-10 at the half, but not before they surrendered a fumble at their own 45 that Carr promptly turned into points. The Razorbacks defense, with visions of glory dancing in its head, surrendered a staggering 420 yards *in the first half alone*—the most points (42) surrendered in an opening half since a 2005 drubbing at the hands of USC. Ouch.

Halftime could not come quickly enough for the Hogs, but the Irish were not done. Aneyas Williams bulldozed his way in from 17 yards out in the fourth to ice the cake, 56. Arkansas got a late touchdown—a 6’8″, 364-pound offensive lineman Josh McRoy rumbling in from a yard out on third-and-goal, a strange wrinkle from Pittman’s playbook that at least provided the crowd with a little bit of something to cheer about. But it was too little, too late. Final score: Notre Dame 56, Arkansas 13. The Irish piled up 643 total yards, turning Razorback Stadium into their playground. Pittman summed it up after the game: “We played terrible.” Understatement of the year.

Now, regarding that growth spurt we saw from these Fighting Irish. Two early-season losses that were burning CFP hopes like a defective stadium light had Notre Dame 1-2 coming into this game, with questions swirling about offensive rhythm and defensive toughness. Their previous win? A 56-30 shootout with Purdue that was filled with flashes but not the dominance seen here. Versus Arkansas, though, the strides were evident—and game-changing.

Then, the passing game: Carr’s debut start was nothing short of magical. Where there had been hesitant passes and misconnections in earlier games, Saturday was all about accuracy and composure. Those four TD passes weren’t lucky; they were the product of polished timing with receivers like Love and Price, who ran crisp routes and gained separation on a secondary that just couldn’t keep up. It’s clear that the coaching staff drilled the fundamentals—footwork, reads, and touch—that turned a raw freshman into an overnight record-breaker.

On the ground, Jeremiyah Love’s four-touchdown explosion led a recommitment to the run game. Notre Dame had been too pass-happy in games prior, but here the Irish got it in balance, mixing in power runs and misdirection that gobbled up big chunks of yards. Love’s versatility—running, catching, celebrating—is emblematic of the explosive backfield Freeman has been building, a far cry from the one-dimensional efforts we’ve become used to seeing.

Defensively, the Irish swarmed like never before. After yielding too many big plays early in the season, Notre Dame’s front seven stuffed the run (holding Arkansas under 100 rushing yards) and generated turnovers at key moments, like that fumble that sparked the late-half surge. The secondary, long an Achilles’ heel, blanketed receivers and held the Hogs to field goals when they did move the chains. Special teams? That fake punt conversion screamed confidence—a unit that’s evolved from liability to luxury.

This win wasn’t just about the scoreboard but about identity. Notre Dame looked like the team we fell in love with: disciplined, dynamic, and downright dominant. At 2-2, the Irish have punched their ticket back into the national conversation, with Boise State up next. If this is the blueprint, watch out, playoff committee— the Fighting Irish are just getting warmed up.

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Notre Dame vs Purdue Predictions 2025

irishranter September 19, 2025 2025 Games, Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Jeremiyah Love

Ah, the crisp September air in South Bend—nothing like it to awaken the spirits of Fighting Irish faithful. As we get ready for the September 20, 2025, Saturday matchup between the Purdue Boilermakers and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at iconic Notre Dame Stadium, the mood is one of frustration and determination. The Irish stand at 0-2 after heart-wrenching, one-score losses to Miami and Texas A&M, games in which they outperformed both opponents but couldn’t seal the deal. Meanwhile, Purdue arrives 2-1, riding a gutty cover against USC in a 33-17 loss, with wins over Ball State and Southern Illinois rounding out the resume. Ah, but seriously: this is no anonymous Big Ten interloper rolling into town. This is the Battle for the Shillelagh Trophy, a series with more twists than a Knute Rockne motivational speech.

What does Notre Dame need to do in order to win that elusive first game and recapture some momentum? Simple: execute the basics that they’ve been teasing but not consummating. Get CJ Carr comfortable with time to throw the ball. The offensive line has to do their job in this game or it could be another disaster. Purdue’s D has been susceptible to the pass, allowing over 280 yards in their USC loss, so go heavy on those downfield glances to RBs like Jeremiyah Love, who possesses the speed to take screens to the house.

Notre Dame’s offense must establish its dominance early with returning All-American Jeremiyah Love leading the group. Purdue’s front seven has allowed 4.5 yards per rush this season. Also, get the ball in the hands of and sophomore phenom Jadarian Price — throw in some misdirection to exploit Purdue’s aggressive linebackers. Flip side? The Irish D-line, led by edge rusher Drayk Bowen and must feast on Purdue QB Ryan Browne. The kid has arm talent (nearly 800 yards, 5 TDs already), but he’s been sacked six times in three games. If Notre Dame’s pass rush—top-20 nationally last year—clips him early, the Boilers’ air-it-out attack collapses like a stale boiler biscuit.

Third, play with house money at home. Notre Dame Stadium isn’t a building; it’s a cauldron. This is a primetime NBC window at 3:30 p.m. ET and the crowd will be roaring like it’s 1988 all over again. Special teams can’t have miscues and recall that blocked punt vs. A&M? —pin Purdue deep and try to dominate on special teams. And coaching? Freeman has to dial up his shots: fake punts, onside kicks if it’s close.

See, Purdue’s no pushover. Browne’s aggressiveness (8.9 yards per attempt) could ignite a backdoor cover if Notre Dame sleepwalks, and their under trend (four of five games) foretells a low-scoring grinder. But the Irish are too talented, too hungry, to let this slip away. This is redemption week—0-2 to 1-2 is worlds apart in a playoff-chasing season.

Score Prediction: Notre Dame 42, Purdue 17

The Irish break it open in the second half, with Love running for 150+ all-purpose yards and Carr scoring twice. Purdue keeps it close early, perhaps picking up a field goal or two, but Notre Dame’s ground-and-pound grinds them down. Shillelagh remains golden. Go Irish—let’s eat!

Heartbreak in Hard Rock: Notre Dame’s Season Opener Slips Away Against Miami

irishranter September 3, 2025 2025 Games Tagged CJ Carr

August 31, 2025 – what was to be a season-opening victory turned out to be a gut-punch for Notre Dame. In a rain-drenched thriller at Hard Rock Stadium, the No. 6 Fighting Irish fell behind the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes, 27–24—a defeat that stings, but wasn’t for lack of effort.

The Offensive Coordinator: Wasn’t at His Best

Offensive Coordinator Mike Denbrock left much to be desired in this encounter. The run game had little more than a pulse – Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price had only 16 carries, which is perplexing in a contest in which the line of scrimmage needed to be grasped.

Instead, the Irish relied incessantly on snap throws and screens that short-circuited both explosiveness and rhythm. It was if Denbrock was stuck on one script and could not break it free – no matter when the Hurricanes exposed the offensive line’s vulnerabilities.

The Defensive Coordinator: Subpar Pressure, Excessive Holes

Defensively, the Irish never got enough off-rush—Miami QB Carson Beck was given too much time to sit back and pick his spots, culminating in enough chunk plays to tilt the momentum.

Notre Dame’s front seven failed to consistently collapse the pocket or stifle Miami’s ground game, which put unnecessary weight on a still-developing secondary.

CJ Carr, Rising Through the Storm

Amid the coaching gaffes, redshirt freshman QB CJ Carr was one of the few bright spots. In his first-ever college start under poor conditions, he threw for 221 yards, two passing touchdowns and an interception, and even contributed a rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter to make it 24-24.

He showed real maturity, calmness, and a flair for improvising — especially on Notre Dame’s first TD, when he avoided pressure, extended the play, and delivered a blow to Micah Gilbert. That kind of calm from a freshman in an away environment is rare.

What Needs Fixing Moving Forward

Here’s an action plan for improvement:

Lean On the Run Game
Get the backs more involved—Love and Price must see regular touches. It will keep defenses honest and help protect Carr.
Revamp the O-Line’s Approach
The offensive line needs to anchor against Miami’s aggressive front—better technique, communication, and game planning are non-negotiable.
Get After the QB
The defense must heat it up—via multiple blitz packages, busted stunts, or just improved gap control and rush lanes.
Refine Clock Management
The fourth-quarter drive broke down not due to lack of heart, but perhaps a result of bad timeouts and sequencing. Tightening up these details matters in close games.
Ride Carr’s Momentum
Let Carr get settled in—gain trust with his receivers, develop his timing, and establish confidence in what he is doing.

Final Thoughts

Even in loss, this opener had flashes of something special. The team showed character in coming back from being down 14 points, and CJ Carr’s first game gave a clear picture of what can be a great season if some things are tweaked.

Just remember: sometimes early-season failures aren’t collapses—they’re wake-up calls. If Denbrock and the defense staff take this as a blueprint for how to improve, and Carr continues to build on his poise, then Notre Dame can still paddle back into championship contention.

Let’s hope experience, adjustments, and that feisty Irish attitude bring redemption in the future.

Check out the game highlights: