Thrilling Miami Win Saves Notre Dame’s Season and Revives Its Playoff Hopes
A performance fans expected
The win over Miami offered more than a boost to Notre Dame’s record or playoff hopes. It showed the kind of performance that fans and media had expected from the team throughout the season.
Notre Dame played with energy, passion and confidence for four quarters against a strong opponent. The result gave the team and staff a reason to feel encouraged, while reassuring supporters that the Irish could reach a higher level.
Big plays decide the rivalry
In a matchup between two talented teams, a small number of decisive plays can shape the outcome. Notre Dame had often come up short in those moments, but against Miami, the Irish made the plays they needed.
Notre Dame controlled the first half in time of possession, offensive play count and scoring. Miami had three points at halftime, while the Irish produced goal-line stops, important third- and fourth-down conversions, and an interception by Luke Talich.
Boston College is next
Before the Miami game, Notre Dame’s remaining three contests seemed far less important if the Irish lost. The victory has put the team back in the College Football Playoff race and shifted attention to the next opponent, Boston College, which is 4-5.
Notre Dame now faces the challenge of sustaining its level of play through the rest of November. The concern is a repeat of the 1993 trap, when Boston College followed Notre Dame’s major win over Florida State.
Key points
- Notre Dame’s victory over Miami returned the Irish to the College Football Playoff race.
- The Irish held Miami to three points in the first half.
- Luke Talich made an interception as Notre Dame delivered key defensive plays.
- Notre Dame’s next opponent is 4-5 Boston College.