Notre Dame prepared for Saturday night's high-stakes game against No. 1 Miami by showing players snippets from the team's iconic 1988 clash, known as "Catholics vs. Convicts." Coach Marcus Freeman emphasized studying history to value the current opportunity. The Irish ensured their opportunity remained by beating Miami 31-24 in a game that came close to matching the angst of 1988. If officials had ruled that Miami tight end Elija Lofton had caught the ball in the end zone with 3:36 left, rather than saying it was dislodged, Notre Dame would have led 31-30, the exact score of the 1988 game.
As it happened, the Irish avoided a disastrous end to a game they dominated for stretches, building a 24-3 lead and looking as much a title contender as they did two years ago. Quarterback CJ Carr passed for 319 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions, showing he could meet the moment against a top-10 opponent. Two running backs logged 10 or more carries and six players had multiple receptions, including wideouts Micah Gilbert and Jordan Faison, who combined for three touchdown catches. A veteran offensive line did not give up a sack for the sixth consecutive game.
The win brought momentary euphoria and relief. Notre Dame's College Football Playoff hopes are probably secured. But the Irish don't aspire to simply reach the playoff. They want a championship. To truly replicate what happened in 1988, Notre Dame must avoid what happened after they built that 24-3 lead. Miami scored touchdowns on three of its next four possessions, and the defense has had high-profile struggles this season. Freeman called the game "as good of a win as I've ever been a part of."
Source: ESPN General · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing