The excitement is palpable as the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff kicks off with a thrilling matchup between two in-state rivals: Indiana and Notre Dame. This highly anticipated game will take place on Friday night, and fans are eager to see how these teams will perform on such a grand stage.
Historic Seasons for Both Teams
The Indiana Hoosiers, under the guidance of Coach Curt Cignetti, have had a remarkable season, finishing with an impressive 11-1 record. After a disappointing three-win campaign in 2023, the Hoosiers have rebounded spectacularly, setting a new program record for wins in a single season. As the No. 10 seed in the playoff, they are looking to make a statement against their storied rivals.
On the other side of the field, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish also boast an 11-1 record and enter the playoff as the No. 7 seed. After suffering a surprising early-season loss to Northern Illinois, the Irish found their rhythm, winning their last ten games. Their formidable rushing attack, led by quarterback Riley Leonard and running back Jeremiyah Love, has been a key factor in their success.
Historical Context of the Rivalry
When these two teams clash, history is on Notre Dame’s side, as they hold a 23-5-1 all-time record against Indiana. However, it’s worth noting that the two teams have only faced each other once since 1958, making this matchup even more intriguing. The stakes are high, with both teams eager to prove themselves in the playoff arena.
Interestingly, while Notre Dame has participated in the College Football Playoff twice before, they have yet to secure a victory. In contrast, this will be Indiana’s first-ever appearance in the playoff, adding an extra layer of excitement for the Hoosiers as they look to make their mark.
Game Details: When and Where to Watch
So, when can fans catch this thrilling matchup? The game is set to begin at 8 p.m. ET on Friday, December 20. It will take place at the iconic Notre Dame Stadium in Notre Dame, Indiana, providing a fitting backdrop for this intense rivalry.
How to Watch Notre Dame vs. Indiana
For those eager to tune in, the game will be broadcast live on ABC and ESPN. Viewers can expect a top-notch commentary team, including Sean McDonough on play-by-play, Greg McElroy as the analyst, and Molly McGrath reporting from the sidelines. This will mark the first time since 1990 that a network other than NBC will carry a Notre Dame home game, making it a historic occasion for fans.
If you’re looking to stream the game, Fubo offers a live streaming option, complete with a free trial for new users. This is a great opportunity for fans to experience the action without committing to a long-term subscription.
Radio Coverage for the Game
For those who prefer to listen to the game, Notre Dame vs. Indiana will be available on SiriusXM. The national broadcast can be found on channel 80, while Indiana’s call will air on channel 84, and Notre Dame’s call will be on channel 129. SiriusXM is offering a free trial for new subscribers, allowing fans to catch all the action on the go.
Looking Ahead: College Football Playoff Schedule
As the excitement builds for this first-round matchup, it’s important to look at the broader College Football Playoff schedule. Following the Indiana vs. Notre Dame game, the playoff will continue with more thrilling matchups, including:
First Round
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fri., Dec. 20 | No. 7 Notre Dame vs. No. 10 Indiana | 8 p.m. | ABC, ESPN, Fubo |
| Sat., Dec. 21 | No. 6 Penn State vs. No. 11 SMU | 12 p.m. | TNT, Fubo |
| No. 5 Texas vs. No. 12 Clemson | 4 p.m. | TNT, Fubo | |
| No. 8 Ohio State vs. No. 9 Tennessee | 8 p.m. | ABC, ESPN, Fubo |
Quarterfinals
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tues., Dec. 31 | No. 3 Boise State vs. Penn State/SMU | 7:30 p.m. | ESPN, Fubo |
| Wed., Jan. 1 | No. 4 Arizona State vs. Texas/Clemson | 1 p.m. | ESPN, Fubo |
| No. 1 Oregon vs. Ohio State/Tennessee | 5 p.m. | ESPN, Fubo | |
| No. 2 Georgia vs. Notre Dame/Indiana | 8:45 p.m. | ESPN, Fubo |
Semifinals
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thurs., Jan. 9 | CFP Semifinal at the Orange Bowl | 7:30 p.m. | ESPN, Fubo |
| Fri., Jan. 10 | CFP Semifinal at the Cotton Bowl | 7:30 p.m. | ESPN, Fubo |
Championship
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mon., Jan. 20 | CFP National Championship | 7:30 p.m. | ESPN, Fubo |
As the countdown to kickoff continues, fans are gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable night of college football. With both teams hungry for victory and a place in the next round of the playoffs, the atmosphere in South Bend is sure to be electric. Who will emerge victorious in this clash of titans? Only time will tell!
