Notre Dame beats Indiana in first game of expanded CFP

 

Notre Dame Triumphs Over Indiana in Inaugural Game of Expanded CFP

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — On Friday, after a big win, Notre Dame players and coaches stood together in the northeast corner of the field, ready to sing the alma mater for the last time at home in 2024.

After a short delay, Coach Marcus Freeman joined the group, raising his fist toward the student section before the band started playing. No. 7 Notre Dame had won 27-17 against No. 10 Indiana, using their usual strong defense, big runs, and physical play to beat the opponent, just like they had all season.

But this win was special. Notre Dame made history by becoming the first team to win a College Football Playoff (CFP) game at home. The Irish had never won a CFP game before, and this was also their first Friday home game since 1900. The fans came out on a snowy morning and celebrated all day and night.

Coach Freeman, now in his third season and with a new contract, took a moment to enjoy the historic scene. "It's something we’ll cherish for the rest of our lives," Freeman said.

Defensive coordinator Al Golden said it was special to be part of such a historic moment. "Everybody in that locker room can say they were part of something first," Golden said.

Notre Dame took control early in the game. Jeremiyah Love ran for a 98-yard touchdown, the longest run in CFP history, and Riley Leonard passed for a touchdown to Jayden Thomas. Love, who was still recovering from an injury, said he was "gassed" after his touchdown but knew no one would catch him.

The defense also played well, with Xavier Watts setting up the touchdown with an interception. The Irish kept Indiana from scoring until the very end of the game.

Indiana coach Curt Cignetti said, "Notre Dame suffocated our offense until the last minute of the game."

Notre Dame’s offense was led by Riley Leonard, who passed for 215 yards and two touchdowns, spreading the ball to 10 different players. Leonard, who transferred from Duke, will play next in the CFP quarterfinals against No. 2 Georgia in New Orleans.

While the win was important, Notre Dame did suffer some injuries, including to defensive tackle Rylie Mills, who hurt his leg in the second half. Coach Freeman said he’s hopeful Mills will be ready for the next game.

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