College Football Playoff Reactions & Best Bets: What Does Notre Dame's Ended Season Mean?

Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love has been named a finalist for the prestigious Heisman Trophy, recognizing him as one of the top players in college football this season. This accolade comes after a standout performance where he set a new school record for touchdowns in a single season, further solidifying his reputation in the sport.

Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love has been named a finalist for the prestigious Heisman Trophy, recognizing him as one of the top players in college football this season. This accolade comes after a standout performance where he set a new school record for touchdowns in a single season.

Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love has been named a finalist for the prestigious Heisman Trophy, showcasing his remarkable season where he accumulated 1,372 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, alongside 280 receiving yards and three touchdowns. This recognition highlights his exceptional performance and contributions to the Fighting Irish's success this year.

The finalists for the 2025 Heisman Trophy have been announced, featuring Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, and Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin. Mendoza's candidacy is bolstered by a remarkable performance against Ohio State, positioning him as a strong contender for the prestigious award.

ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips addressed criticism from Notre Dame Athletic Director Pete Bevacqua regarding the College Football Playoff (CFP) committee's decisions, particularly the exclusion of Notre Dame from the playoffs and the perceived favoritism towards Miami. Phillips emphasized the integrity of the selection process amidst ongoing tensions between the ACC and Notre Dame.

The Notre Dame football program has been notably excluded from the College Football Playoff (CFP) for the current season, prompting the Fighting Irish to decline participation in a bowl game. This decision has been described by Athletic Director Pete Bevacqua as a significant disappointment, feeling akin to a theft from the student-athletes involved. Former quarterback Brady Quinn has warned that non-CFP affiliated bowl games may face extinction as a result of such decisions.

The final standings for the 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP) have sparked controversy, as notable teams like Notre Dame and BYU were excluded while Group of 5 teams James Madison and Tulane were selected. Jon Gruden criticized the CFP for prioritizing these teams over traditional powerhouses, highlighting the ongoing debate about the playoff selection process.

Notre Dame Athletic Director Pete Bavacqua has stated that the school's relationship with the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has suffered 'permanent damage' following the conference's apparent support for Miami's inclusion in the College Football Playoff (CFP) over Notre Dame. This decision has left the Fighting Irish feeling sidelined after a strong season.