Notre Dame Predicted to Contend for National Championship
The preseason AP Top 25 poll has been released, marking the approach of the 2026 college football season. Notre Dame is ranked fourth, alongside top teams like Ohio State, Oregon, and Georgia.
Many analysts consider Notre Dame a serious contender for the national championship after finishing last season with a 10-2 record and being the first team outside the 12-team playoff. Rece Davis from ESPN's College GameDay has named Notre Dame his preseason No. 1 team, citing their strong roster and manageable schedule.
Quarterback CJ Carr returns for his second season, having thrown for 2,741 yards and 24 touchdowns last year. Despite losing key running backs to the NFL draft, the team retains a solid running back group and has added former five-star recruit Quincy Porter. With a stable coaching staff, including head coach Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame aims to capitalize on its favorable schedule, facing its first ranked opponent on October 17.
