Notre Dame will be without defensive linemen Francis Brewu and Jason Onye for its Saturday night matchup against No. 1 Miami (8-0), as both players were ruled doubtful just hours before kickoff. Brewu, who has started all seven games for Notre Dame this season, has recorded 16 tackles, three tackles for loss, and two sacks through eight games. Onye, who joined the team in 2021 and played his first game in 2022, has appeared in three games this season with four tackles.
The Irish, ranked No. 4 in the AP Poll and No. 11 in the College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings, are seeking a signature win to bolster their playoff hopes. Miami, the nation’s highest-scoring offense, enters the game averaging 47.6 points per game and has notched 25 touchdown passes from quarterback Darian Mensah with just one interception. However, the Hurricanes will be without Malachi Toney, their most productive receiver, who missed the game with an ankle injury requiring surgery.
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman emphasized the importance of the home crowd’s atmosphere, stating, “I hope it’s so loud when we’re on defense that it doesn’t matter what Coach Ash is telling the green dot. It’s a challenge to our fans to be loud.” Freeman added that a hostile environment impacts communication on the field, particularly for the offense.
Miami, which defeated Notre Dame 27-24 in last year’s season opener, is looking to maintain its undefeated record and solidify its position as the No. 1 team in the CFP rankings. The Hurricanes’ schedule has drawn scrutiny, with critics noting they have not faced a ranked opponent until this game. ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit questioned Miami’s offensive resume during College GameDay, stating, “Who has Miami played? They haven’t played anybody.” Herbstreit later acknowledged Wake Forest’s improved standing but maintained that Miami’s schedule lacked top-tier competition.
Notre Dame, an independent program, holds a unique position in the playoff race. If the Irish finish inside the top 12 of the final CFP rankings, they are guaranteed a playoff spot, which could reduce at-large selections for other conferences. Nick Saban, former Alabama head coach and current ESPN analyst, expressed support for Notre Dame, stating, “Since I'm an SEC guy, I'm all for Notre Dame.” Saban’s preference aligns with the SEC’s broader interest in limiting Big Ten representation in the playoff field.
The matchup carries implications beyond the two teams, as the outcome could influence the playoff selection process and conference dynamics. Notre Dame’s defense, which has held six of its first eight opponents to 14 points or fewer, will face a significant challenge against Miami’s high-powered offense. The Irish’s ability to adapt without Brewu and Onye may determine their ability to secure a playoff berth.