Live Updates: Indiana vs. Notre Dame – Watching Guide, Predictions, and Odds for the CFP Game
The College Football Playoff has combined the paths of Notre Dame and Indiana on the field for the first time since 1991.
In their historical matchups, the Fighting Irish hold a commanding lead of 23 wins against 5 losses and 1 tie over their in-state rival, but this game gives the Hoosiers a chance to shine on a grand stage.
Indiana secured its place in the playoff with an impressive 11-1 record, with their sole defeat coming late in the season against Ohio State. Quarterback Kurtis Rourke played a pivotal role, completing 202 out of 287 passes for 2,827 yards, accounting for 27 touchdowns and just four interceptions.
Notre Dame also concluded the regular season at 11-1, bouncing back from an unexpected early loss to Northern Illinois.
The Fighting Irish’s quarterback, Riley Leonard, had a notable season, completing 194 of 293 throws for 2,092 yards, with 16 touchdowns and five interceptions. Meanwhile, running back Jeremiyah Love amassed 949 rushing yards and scored 15 touchdowns over 134 carries.
The weather could play a role in the game, with expected temperatures hovering in the upper 20s accompanied by a chance of snow.
When is the College Football Playoff Game Between Indiana and Notre Dame?
The playoff matchup, featuring No. 10 seed Indiana against No. 7 seed Notre Dame, is set to start at 8 p.m. ET at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana.
How to Watch the Indiana vs. Notre Dame College Football Playoff Game
Fans can watch the first-round playoff game on ABC and ESPN, as it will be broadcast nationally.
Alternatively, viewers can live stream the game through Fubo, which offers a free trial option.
Watch Indiana vs. Notre Dame FREE with Fubo
Betting Odds for Indiana vs. Notre Dame
BetMGM has made Notre Dame the favorite to win against Indiana, according to the latest odds released.
- Spread: Notre Dame (-6.5)
- Moneyline: Notre Dame (-275); Indiana (+220)
- Over/under: 50.5
CFP First-Round Predictions: Notre Dame vs. Indiana
YSL News: Notre Dame Predicted to Defeat Indiana
Paul Myerberg notes: “Notre Dame is often underestimated due to a relatively soft schedule, yet they are a strong contender with a well-rounded team across all areas. While some doubt Indiana’s ability to win multiple playoff matches, expect Notre Dame to contain Kurtis Rourke while leveraging their formidable rushing attack, which ranks third in the nation for yards per carry.”
ESPN: Notre Dame at 73.7% Chance of Victory
ESPN’s Matchup Predictor gives the Fighting Irish a 70.4% likelihood of winning against the Hoosiers as of Friday, December 13.
The Sporting News: Notre Dame 28, Indiana 24
Bill Bender states: “With Indiana’s defense allowing only 2.5 yards per carry this season, the Irish running game will be a significant test. Kurtis Rourke is expected to challenge Notre Dame’s secondary, and the Hoosiers must also effectively run the ball. Indiana coach Curt Cignetti’s remarkable season could continue against the Irish. Although Notre Dame has covered the spread in its past seven games, this matchup will be closer.”
Fox Sports: Indiana Likely to Win
RJ Young shares: “The Irish will be up against the most balanced team they’ve encountered this season. Indiana has impressively beaten 10 of its 12 opponents by sizable margins and regards itself as the top team in Indiana. Nevertheless, Notre Dame’s defense, under Al Golden, has been exceptionally strong, only allowing one team to score 35 points all season.”
Bowl Game Predictions (to be updated until the game starts)
Here you can find expert insights and predictions for all college football bowl matchups.
All-Time Record: Indiana vs. Notre Dame
Since their first meeting in 1898, Indiana and Notre Dame have faced each other 29 times. Notre Dame leads the historical series with 23 victories, 5 losses, and 1 tie.
In their last matchup in 1991, the Fighting Irish triumphed with a score of 49-27.
Where is College GameDay for the College Football Playoffs?
“College GameDay” is not taking a break during the postseason and is offering fans double the entertainment. The show began its broadcast on Friday at 3:30 p.m. ET in advance of the Indiana vs. Notre Dame matchup.
The crew will return on Saturday at 9 a.m. ET from Columbus, Ohio, where No. 9 seed Tennessee will face No. 8 seed Ohio State in the last first-round game of the playoffs at 8 p.m. ET.