Notre Dame Defeats Indiana in Historic Expanded CFP Opener

Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman was thrilled after the historic win. "I've never experienced anything like that," he said. "It’s rare in life to be the first to do something, but tonight, we were the first to play and win a playoff game in Notre Dame Stadium. That’s something we’ll cherish forever." Defensive coordinator Al Golden, who has helped build a strong defense, reflected on the significance of the moment. "Notre Dame's history is so rich that it's hard to be part of a 'first,' but now everyone in that locker room can say they were part of history," Golden said. Notre Dame jumped to a 14-0 lead early, thanks to Jeremiyah Love’s record-breaking 98-yard touchdown run and a long 16-play drive ending in Riley Leonard’s pass to Jayden Thomas. Love’s run was the longest in CFP history, tied for the longest in Notre Dame history, and the longest play Indiana has ever allowed. Despite recovering from a knee injury and illness, Love made his mark. "I was exhausted, but I knew I was going to score," he said. Defensively, safety Xavier Watts led the team with 10 tackles and set up Love's touchdown with an interception. The Irish held Indiana to just a field goal until the final 90 seconds and dominated on third downs, sacks, and tackles for loss. Quarterback Riley Leonard rebounded from an early interception to throw for 215 yards and two touchdowns, spreading the ball to 10 receivers. Leonard will lead the team against No. 2 Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, aiming to end Notre Dame's 10-game losing streak in major bowl games. Injuries to key players like defensive tackle Rylie Mills, offensive lineman Rocco Spindler, and defensive lineman Bryce Young added concern. However, Freeman remains hopeful Mills will recover in time for the Sugar Bowl. "We’ll work to get him ready for New Orleans," Freeman said. Despite challenges, Notre Dame’s performance cemented a place in history, as the team continues its pursuit of a championship.