7. Notre Dame Fighting Irish vs. 10. Alabama Crimson Tide
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish cannot get a first-round bye, but I have them making the College Football Playoff and hosting a first-round game as the seventh seed. The Irish have a relatively soft schedule, particularly after the week one trip to Texas A&M. The defense should be stout, and the Fighting Irish feel good about the offense with the addition of Riley Leonard. If healthy, he provides a real running threat that could pair very nicely with running back Jeremiyah Love. The offensive line is a concern, but they have earned the benefit of the doubt. The tenth seed goes to the Alabama Crimson Tide, earning a bid in Kalen DeBoer’s first season in Tuscaloosa. The Tide hopes to succeed with Jalen Milroe at quarterback, and DeBoer is one of the brightest offensive minds in the country. He will get the most out of Milroe and a suspect group of weapons around him. The defense has a lot of uncertainty, but plenty of five-star talent haven’t had a chance to prove themselves yet. The one area that could be their undoing is the secondary. This game would be in South Bend in December, and Alabama fans would need to find some winter weather gear to make the trip.
Notre Dame Odds to Make CFP: -170
