Only four teams remain in the College Football Playoff, with competition set to continue Thursday evening. The first semifinal matchup features two storied programs with a rich history, yet limited championship victories in both the current four-team playoff system and its predecessor, the Bowl Championship Series. Notably, Notre Dame last claimed a national championship in 1988, while Penn State’s last title came two years prior.

Both fan bases are undoubtedly eager for success, but they have reasons to feel optimistic given their teams’ performances this postseason. Notre Dame showcased its strong defense against an emerging Indiana team and followed up with a solid victory over a weakened Georgia squad. Meanwhile, Penn State triumphed over an error-prone SMU and then decisively defeated Boise State to secure their spot in this round.

Here’s what to expect from tonight’s game.

Orange Bowl – No. 6 Penn State vs. No. 7 Notre Dame

Time/TV/Location: 7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN, Miami Gardens, Fla.

Why tune in: If you appreciate hard-hitting, traditional football, this game is for you. The Fighting Irish defense has been a standout this season, allowing just 13.6 points per game and leading the nation with 31 takeaways. Key defenders include LB Jack Kiser and DB Xavier Watts, and the defensive line performed admirably against Georgia, despite missing key player Rylie Mills due to a knee injury. They’ll face a formidable ground game from the Nittany Lions, powered by RBs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. At times, Penn State’s play-calling may have been overly intricate against Boise State, but QB Drew Allar will need some inventive strategies against Notre Dame’s secondary. The versatility of TE Tyler Warren will be crucial, along with contributions from wide receivers. Conversely, Notre Dame will rely on QB Riley Leonard’s decision-making for short passes and runs. Although speedy RB Jeremiyah Love is nursing a knee tweak from the Georgia game, he is expected to participate. RB Jadarian Price will provide additional ground support, but he will need wide receivers Beaux Collins or Jordan Faison to help stretch the defense. Penn State might miss top pass rusher Abdul Carter due to an apparent arm injury sustained last week, but there are still playmakers like DB Jaylen Reed and LB Kobe King who could pressure Leonard.up

Potential Disappointment: Due to circumstances beyond their control, Notre Dame has one less day of rest than expected going into this game. This may or may not play a role, but overall, points may be hard to come by, and overcoming a multi-score deficit could prove challenging.