Notre Dame Football Under Coach Marcus Freeman: Preparing for USC and CFP Implications

As the Notre Dame Fighting Irish prepare to face the USC Trojans, the team is under the leadership of Head Coach Marcus Freeman. Freeman, who took over the helm, has been instrumental in guiding the Irish to a strong season, including a recent surge that has seen them move up to No. 5 in the College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings.

The Irish have been impressive, particularly in November, where they have outscored their opponents 134-31. This performance has positioned them for a potential spot in the CFP, with projections indicating they would face SMU in the first round if the current rankings hold. The winner of that game would then face the No. 2 seed, currently the Texas Longhorns.

Despite their strong performance, the Irish are dealing with several injuries. Defensive lineman Howard Cross III and quarterback CJ Carr are listed as questionable, while linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, wide receiver KK Smith, and linebacker Bodie Kahoun are out due to their respective injuries.

Defensive coordinator Al Golden has been key in preparing the team’s defense, which has been elite in most categories except for rush yards allowed per game. Golden’s strategies will be crucial as the Irish face USC’s potent aerial attack, led by Coach Lincoln Riley. The game is expected to be competitive, with the Irish’s rushing attack, led by Riley Leonard and Jeremiyah Love, likely to be a deciding factor.

The matchup against USC is significant not only for the CFP implications but also as a test of the Irish’s resilience and strategy. Coach Freeman and his team are looking to maintain their momentum and secure a victory that would further solidify their position in the playoff rankings.