Notre Dame didn't accomplish its biggest team goal of 2024, but did take huge steps in moving the program forward despite a national championship game loss.

The Marcus Freeman-led Fighting Irish have become a force to be reckoned with, boasting an impressive 14-1 record. Their road to the National Championship game included wins against Indiana, Georgia, and most recently, a nail-biter 27-24 victory over a talented Penn State Nittany Lions team.

Notre Dame showed this season why its comfortable staying independent — even if it has to play an extra game in its quest for a championship.

The No. 7 Ohio State Buckeyes (13-2) are significant favorites (-8.5) in this year’s College Football Playoff National Championship, where they will oppose the No. 3 Notre Dame Fighting

Everything you need to know to watch the Ohio State Buckeyes take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish for the national title on Monday, Jan. 20.

Notre Dame came within a game of winning the national championship. The Fighting Irish return to the field against the Miami Hurricanes of the ACC to kick off the 2025 season. Notre Dame is an independent but plays four other ACC schools.