I agree and wonder what Penn State did to get such a nice path but that’s a whole other story. As a lifelong ND fan I don’t mind not being in a conference and having to play round 1, especially when we get to host a playoff game.
As for the game, I’m looking at both qbs and head coaches. QBs have to protect the ball. We know Riley Leonard can run but can he throw enough to keep that Hoosier defense honest? And probably over dramatic here but Marcus Freeman has the chance to change the narrative about Notre Dame football and winning vs the big boys and winning when it matters. I can’t say I have a ton of confidence after NIU, Marshall, Louisville but hopefully they learned from the NIU loss this season. The way his team has played after that horrendous loss says a lot about the players and coaches (also the schedule) staying focus. IU will not be intimidated and their coach will have them ready. Hope the Irish come out ready to answer