In a night charged with Notre Dame CFP chances 2025
rivalry energy and playoff implications, the Miami Hurricanes stole the spotlight—and potential playoff momentum—with a 27–24 upset over No. 6 Notre Dame. This week’s opener didn’t just set the tone for the 2025 season; it fundamentally shifted the College Football Playoff trajectories of both programs.
Miami: From Hopeful to High Ground
For Miami and Head Coach Mario Cristobal, this was the statement win they needed to vault into serious CFP consideration. According to CBS Sports, “a signature win in the national spotlight” gives the Hurricanes a prime piece of résumé for the selection committee to remember
In defeating a top‑10 opponent on the road, Miami demonstrates that it can compete at the highest level—and that’s a narrative no CFP voter can ignore. The Hurricanes’ guarding success in the trenches, strong defense, and opportunistic play forced Notre Dame turnovers that they turned into points in crucial moments
If they can follow up with a win over Florida and maintain momentum into ACC play, Miami could be looking at a 10-win season—and possibly ACC champions—solidifying their place among playoff contenders. As CBS notes, even a 10‑2 finish could still yield an at‑large spot, assuming they make the conference title game
Notre Dame: Margin for Error Vanishes
Notre Dame’s loss doesn’t just end a 10‑game regular-season win streak under Marcus Freeman—it casts a shadow over their path to another playoff appearance. Now, as an independent, they’re relying entirely on at‑large credentials rather than a conference title to make the bracket, and their schedule features few reliable high-risk, high-reward matchups moving forward.
Game Recap: Key Moments That Shifted Everything
The game delivered drama from start to finish. Miami’s Carson Beck—fresh off a transfer from Georgia—threw two touchdowns with zero turnovers. He connected well with emerging talent like freshman Malachi Toney. Miami’s defense generated five tackles for loss and three sacks, while forcing both a fumble and an interception at critical junctures
What Lies Ahead
- Miami’s outlook: Riding a wave of confidence and a signature win, the Hurricanes must keep racking up wins—not just for record, but to build strength-of-schedule relevance. Their path through the ACC, featuring matchups with Florida State and Louisville, could pave the way to a CFP berth.
- Notre Dame’s uphill battle: With fewer marquee opportunities ahead, the Irish must maximize every game. Any additional missteps could drop them out of serious CFP conversations. They need a near-perfect run to stay in the mix.
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Final Thought
One game doesn’t define a season—but it can steer it. Miami now stands on firmer CFP ground; Notre Dame must regroup quickly or risk slipping off the national radar. The opening blow delivered more than just an upset. It reshaped a playoff race.
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