Head-to-head history
This matchup has been all Notre Dame throughout history. They’re 23-5 against Indiana, who have never really been known as a football school until their emergence in 2024. The last meeting was way back in 1991, though. Obviously a lot has changed since then. Nevertheless, it should be a very entertaining game between two solid teams.
Can Indiana keep it rolling?
The Hoosiers truly turned heads across the country this season with their dominance under head coach Curt Cignetti, who recently signed an extension. Indiana was one of the best teams around on both sides of the ball, scoring the second-most points in the NCAA (43.3) while allowing the second-fewest yards per game in the nation, too. The leader for the Hoosiers was Canadian QB Kurtis Rourke, who put together a Heisman-like campaign.
Rourke completed 70.4% of his passes for 2,827 yards and 27 touchdowns against four interceptions in 11 games played. His main weapons out wide are Elijah Sarratt, Ke’Shawn Williams, and Myles Price, who all had more than 30 receptions apiece. The Indiana running back room is also stellar. The duo of Justice Ellison and Ty Son Lawton rushed for 22 touchdowns combined and nearly 1,500 yards.
While the Hoosiers did suffer their only loss of the season in Week 13 against Ohio State, thye bounced back in a massive way in Week 14 at the end of November, hammering Purdue 66-0. Indy convincingly beat nearly every opponent this season but Friday’s matchup will certainly be a close one. Notre Dame is no joke. That’s why the Hoosiers are a slim underdog at online betting sites.
Can Notre Dame’s defense stop Indiana?
While Indiana was electric in ‘24, they did struggle against elite defenses in Michigan and Ohio State. ND also happens to be stellar defensively, allowing a mere 13.6 points per game. The Fighting Irish certainly know this will be the difference-maker in Friday’s outcome. If they can slow down Rourke and Co., they will advance.
Notre Dame also went 11-1 this season and won 11 in a row following a shocking loss to Northern Illinois in Week 2. The Irish several solid programs along the way, including Florida State, USC, and Georgia Tech. Quarterback Riley Leonard did his part, but it’s the run game that really stands out for Marcus Freeman’s squad, ranking 10th in the country. Jeremiyah Love rushed for a mind-boggling 7.1 yards per carry and 15 touchdowns, while Leonard also dominated with his legs, taking it to the house 14 times for 721 yards.
Although Indiana has a strong defense, Leonard’s versatility and the weapons at his disposal present a challenge for the Hoosiers. Playing at home definitely puts Notre Dame at an advantage as well. The Fighting Irish are favored by 7.5 points at Sports Interaction.
