Summary
Notre Dame was not included in the College Football Playoff in 2026, partly due to a weaker schedule. The team lost its regular season games against ranked teams Miami and Texas A&M and has now lost its annual series with USC. Notre Dame plans to replace this series with a two-year matchup against BYU.
Key Facts
- Notre Dame's football team did not qualify for the 2026 College Football Playoff.
- Key losses occurred against ranked teams Miami and Texas A&M.
- Notre Dame beat USC and Pittsburgh, which were ranked No. 20 and No. 22 at the time.
- The series between Notre Dame and USC will not continue, missing scheduling agreements for beyond 2026.
- Notre Dame plans to play a two-year series against BYU.
- BYU finished its season 11-2 but lost heavily in the Big 12 championship.
- USC's absence is seen as a loss for Notre Dame's strength of schedule.
