SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Marcus Freeman has experienced his fair share of challenges during his coaching career, from significant defeats to unexpected setbacks. However, this past Friday marked a pivotal moment for him as he celebrated a landmark victory in the inaugural game of college football’s playoff era. The atmosphere at Notre Dame Stadium was filled with the joyful sounds of players singing the school’s alma mater while snowflakes danced through the air, celebrating a historic achievement.
The Fighting Irish secured their first-ever playoff victory, defeating the 10th-seeded Indiana Hoosiers with a score of 27-17. Jeremiyah Love made a remarkable impression by matching a school record with a 98-yard touchdown run, occurring just three plays into the game. Quarterback Riley Leonard also delivered with a pair of touchdown accounts, demonstrating the team’s ability to hold Indiana’s high-scoring offense at bay. “There aren’t many times in your life that you’re the first to do something,” Freeman remarked. “We’re the first squad to play and win a playoff game here at Notre Dame, and that’s something we will all cherish forever.”
Following this impressive performance, Freeman and the Fighting Irish (12-1) find themselves reveling in their 11th consecutive win, tying the school record for the most victories in a single season as they celebrate their first playoff triumph after four attempts. There is no time to rest, however, as they are set to face the SEC champion Georgia Bulldogs (11-2) in the upcoming Sugar Bowl. This clash represents an opportunity for Notre Dame to advance to the semifinals while pursuing their first national championship since 1988.
“It’s an amazing feeling, but fundamentally, it’s just another football game,” Leonard stated. He was instrumental in the game, running for a record-setting touchdown and throwing for another. “We want to prolong our season as much as possible because our passion for this game and for representing the university is what drives us.”
The Irish took an early lead against Indiana, a formidable team that had enjoyed a magical season until this point. Despite allowing 14 points in the last 87 seconds of the game, Notre Dame maintained control and ultimately sealed the win. The Hoosiers, despite having set a new school record for wins, have not triumphed at Notre Dame since 1898. “They really took it to us,” Indiana coach Curt Cignetti acknowledged. “Their quarterback was exceptional, and their defense constrained us until the final moments. They didn’t just win; they deserved the win.”
The game had an electrifying start when Xavier Watts intercepted Kurtis Rourke’s pass at the Irish 2-yard line, leading to Love’s sensational run to score. His impressive burst of speed not only tied Josh Adams for the longest run in Irish history, originally set in 2015 but also marked the longest run in the history of the college football playoffs. Love finished the game with eight carries, amassing 108 yards despite not being in perfect condition, having seemingly aggravated his knee during the match.
With a definitive 14-0 lead early in the second quarter, Notre Dame’s momentum was unshakeable. Leonard’s 1-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter set a new record for rushing touchdowns by a quarterback in a single season at Notre Dame, totaling 15. He completed 23 of his 32 passes for 201 yards, with one touchdown and an interception, while wide receiver Jordan Faison had a standout game with seven catches for 89 yards. In contrast, Rourke struggled against Notre Dame’s robust defense, finishing 20 of 33 with 215 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, as Indiana could only manage 63 rushing yards.
For Freeman and the Irish, this victory signifies more than just a win; it embodies a moment to bask in success. “There’s simply no place like Notre Dame,” Leonard expressed. “This is the reason why I chose to play here — to pursue a national championship.”
In summary: Indiana experienced a playoff season like no other, having previously trailed fewer minutes than any other FBS team throughout the season and boasting the highest-scoring team in the playoffs. However, against a formidable Irish defense, they were unable to replicate that success. Notre Dame’s combination of a powerful running game and a solid defense proved vital in this first playoff win.
Looking ahead, Indiana is poised for a busy offseason as they aim to build on the foundation laid in Year 1 under coach Curt Cignetti. Meanwhile, Notre Dame prepares to face Georgia in the Sugar Bowl on New Year’s Day, with hopes high for the national championship pursuit.