South Bend, Indiana – Notre Dame players and coaches gathered in the northeast corner of the field Friday night, ready to sing the alma mater for the final time at home in 2024.
In a defining moment, head coach Marcus Freeman joined the group with enthusiasm, raising his fist toward the student section before the band began to play. The No. 7 Fighting Irish defeated No. 10 Indiana 27-17, relying on their signature strengths: a dominant defense, explosive runs, and relentless physicality that had defined their season.
A Historic Achievement for Notre Dame
This win was unlike any other. Notre Dame became the first program to secure a victory in a College Football Playoff game on campus. It was also their first Friday home game since 1900, played in front of a passionate crowd braving snowy conditions.
Freeman reflected on the historic night, saying:
“I’ve never experienced an atmosphere like that. It’s rare to be the first to do something, and as I told the team, we were the first to win and play a playoff game at Notre Dame Stadium. That’s something we’ll cherish forever.”
Defensive coordinator Al Golden, who orchestrated a stellar defensive performance, added:
“Notre Dame’s legacy is so rich that it’s hard to find a first. But now, everyone in that locker room can proudly say they were part of history.”
Key Moments
- A Record-Setting Run: Sophomore Jeremiyah Love electrified the stadium with a 98-yard touchdown run, the longest in College Football Playoff history, tying the record for Notre Dame’s longest run ever.
- Defensive Dominance: Led by Xavier Watts, who recorded 10 tackles, Notre Dame’s defense stifled Indiana’s offense, preventing them from reaching the end zone until the game’s final moments.
Injuries Cause Concern
Despite the victory, Notre Dame faced injuries to key players, most notably defensive tackle Rylie Mills, who left the game with a leg injury. Mills, the team leader in sacks, may return for the upcoming Sugar Bowl against Georgia on January 1.
Coach Freeman expressed optimism about Mills’ recovery, saying:
“We’ll do everything to get him ready over the next 10-11 days.”
Looking Ahead
Team leader Riley Leonard shared his excitement about the team’s journey, saying:
“Starting my college career 3-9 at Duke, I never imagined I’d be playing in the Sugar Bowl. It feels surreal, but we’re staying alive and ready to play as long as we can.”
Notre Dame’s Redemption Quest
This victory underscores Notre Dame’s readiness to compete on the biggest stage, as they aim to break their streak of losses in major New Year’s Day bowl games, which dates back to 1994.
Will Notre Dame continue making history? All eyes are on New Orleans as the Fighting Irish gear up for their next challenge!
