The 2024 Notre Dame Football Schedule: A Season of Hope and Ambition

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, college football fans eagerly anticipate the start of a new season. For the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, the 2024 season holds particular significance. After finishing with a commendable 10-3 record in 2023, the Irish are poised to make a serious run at the College Football Playoffs for the first time since 2020. With a mix of challenging opponents and exciting matchups, the 2024 schedule promises to be a thrilling ride for players and fans alike.

Key Dates and Matchups

The Fighting Irish kick off their season with a high-stakes game against No. 20 Texas A&M on August 31, 2024. This matchup not only sets the tone for the season but also provides an early test against a ranked opponent. The game will be broadcast on ABC, allowing fans across the nation to tune in and support their team from College Station, Texas.

Early Season Highlights

Following the opener, Notre Dame will return home to face Northern Illinois on September 7. This game, airing on NBC and Peacock, is crucial for establishing momentum early in the season. However, the Irish will need to be cautious; Northern Illinois is known for its unpredictable play.

The Irish then travel to West Lafayette, Indiana, to take on Purdue on September 14. This rivalry game, which will be broadcast on CBS, is always a fierce contest, and the Irish will be looking to assert their dominance after a strong performance against the Boilermakers last season.

A Crucial Stretch

September 21 marks another home game against Miami (Ohio), followed by a significant matchup against No. 15 Louisville on September 28. The game against Louisville will be a pivotal moment in the season, as both teams are expected to be competitive. This game will be available on Peacock, giving fans a chance to catch the action from the comfort of their homes.

As October rolls in, the Irish will face Stanford on October 12, followed by a trip to Atlanta to take on Georgia Tech on October 19. The game against Georgia Tech is still to be determined in terms of time and broadcast, but it promises to be an exciting contest.

The November Showdown

One of the most anticipated games of the season will occur on November 9, when Notre Dame hosts Florida State. This matchup, which will be aired on NBC and Peacock, is expected to draw significant attention, as both teams are traditionally strong contenders in college football.

The Irish will then face Virginia on November 16, followed by a matchup against Army on November 23. The game against Army will take place in the Bronx, New York, and is set for a primetime slot at 7 p.m. on NBC and Peacock.

Closing Out the Season

The regular season will conclude with a challenging game against Southern Cal on November 30. The time and broadcast details for this game are still to be determined, but it is sure to be a thrilling finale to the season, especially given the historical rivalry between these two storied programs.

Looking Back: 2023 Season Recap

To understand the stakes of the 2024 season, it’s essential to reflect on the previous year. The Fighting Irish maintained a spot in the AP Top 25 throughout the 2023 season, showcasing their resilience and talent. Despite a tough loss to unranked Clemson, the Irish ended the season on a high note, dominating No. 19 Oregon State in the Sun Bowl with a decisive 40-8 victory.

2023 Highlights

• Opening Game: Notre Dame kicked off the 2023 season with a commanding win over Navy (42-3).
• Key Victories: Notable wins included a thrilling victory against No. 10 USC (48-20) and a solid performance against No. 17 Duke (21-14).
• Final Ranking: The Irish finished the 2023 season ranked No. 14 in the final College Football Playoff rankings, just outside the playoff picture.

The Road Ahead: College Football Playoff Format

The 2024-25 season marks a new era in college football with the introduction of a 12-team playoff format. This change opens up new opportunities for teams like Notre Dame to secure a spot in the playoffs, provided they can navigate their challenging schedule successfully.

Upcoming Playoff Schedule

• First Round: December 20-21, 2024
• Quarterfinals: December 31, 2024, and January 1, 2025
• Semifinals: January 9-10, 2025
• National Championship: January 20, 2025, in Atlanta, GA

With the expanded playoff format, every game counts more than ever, and the Fighting Irish will be looking to capitalize on their opportunities throughout the season.

Conclusion

As the 2024 season approaches, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish are ready to take the field with determination and ambition. With a challenging schedule ahead and the potential for a playoff berth, fans can expect an exciting season filled with memorable moments and fierce competition. Whether you’re cheering from the stands at Notre Dame Stadium or watching from home, this season promises to be one for the ages.