By Jim Williams, Senior Columnist Capital Sports Network
As the Fighting Irish prepare to host longtime in-state rival Purdue on September 20, the stakes couldn’t be higher. After two razor-thin losses to top-10 opponents, Notre Dame sits at 0–2 but still ranked No. 24 nationally. If Marcus Freeman’s squad hopes to claw its way back into the College Football Playoff conversation, it must treat this rivalry game as a launchpad—not a distraction. The Irish have the talent to do it, led by freshman quarterback CJ Carr, who’s shown poise and precision in his first two starts, and a dynamic backfield featuring Jadarian Price and Gi’Bran Payne. Wideout Tobias Merriweather and tight end Holden Staes give Carr elite targets, while linebacker Jaylen Sneed anchors a defense hungry for redemption.
MUST READS
Broadcast & Radio Information
| Matchup | Kickoff Time (ET) | TV Channel | Streaming | Radio Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purdue at Notre Dame | 3:30 PM | NBC | Peacock, Fubo | WSBT 960 AM, WNSN 101.5 FM (South Bend); SiriusXM Ch. 85; Purdue Global Radio Network (WAZY 96.5 FM, WKJG 100.9 FM, WNDE 1260 AM, WGBF 1280 AM2) |
The Road Ahead: Irish Must Run the Table
If Notre Dame is serious about a playoff push, the margin for error is gone. The remaining schedule includes USC, Clemson, and a surging Louisville squad, but no other ranked opponents as of Week 4. That means every game is a must-win, and every performance must be dominant. The Irish will need defensive coordinator Chris Ash to tighten up a unit that ranks outside the top 100 in points allowed. If CJ Carr continues to mature and the offense stays explosive, Notre Dame could replicate last year’s late-season surge and re-enter the playoff picture. But it all starts with Purdue—and a win on Saturday is non-negotiable.
