Notre Dame's College Football Playoff aspirations rest on a crucial upcoming game against the Miami Hurricanes, with columnist Austin Curtright asserting that the Fighting Irish have run out of excuses. A loss would effectively end Notre Dame's chances of reaching the four-team playoff, according to the USA TODAY Sports analysis published November 4, 2026.
The article emphasizes that Notre Dame must secure a victory over Miami to remain in contention for the CFP. The matchup represents a pivotal moment for the program as the postseason picture begins to take shape.



