In the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff, the No. 7 Notre Dame Fighting Irish demonstrated their superiority over the No. 10 Indiana Hoosiers with a decisive 27-17 victory. The game was highlighted by Jeremiyah Love's record-setting 98-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, which set the tone for an overwhelming performance by the Fighting Irish. By halftime, Notre Dame had secured a commanding lead, and despite late efforts by Indiana, the outcome remained unchanged. This win sets up a Sugar Bowl matchup against No. 2 Georgia on January 1st.

Love's Record-Breaking Run Sets the Tone

The opening moments of the game were pivotal as Jeremiyah Love’s extraordinary 98-yard touchdown run not only tied a school record but also established a new benchmark for the College Football Playoff. This electrifying play gave Notre Dame an early 7-0 advantage and immediately shifted momentum in their favor. Throughout the first half, the Fighting Irish maintained control, extending their lead to 17-3 at halftime. Indiana’s lone score came from a strategic decision to kick a field goal with less than five minutes remaining in the second quarter, a move that reflected their struggle to find a rhythm.

Love’s remarkable run symbolized the night’s narrative, showcasing Notre Dame’s dominance and setting a high bar that Indiana found impossible to meet. The Hoosiers’ offensive line faced significant challenges, particularly evident in their inability to capitalize on opportunities. Despite brief moments of resistance, including a timeout to consider going for it on fourth down, Indiana ultimately opted for safer plays, which further widened the gap. The halftime score clearly indicated that Notre Dame was in complete control of the game.

Indiana's Struggles Highlighted in Second Half

The third quarter marked a turning point where any hopes of an Indiana upset faded away. Notre Dame capitalized on their momentum, receiving the kickoff past midfield and forcing Indiana into a quick three-and-out. A critical penalty on James Carpenter for hitting Riley Leonard out of bounds extended Notre Dame’s drive, leading to a crucial 17-point lead. With time dwindling and the deficit mounting, Indiana resorted to punting while trailing by 17 points, signaling their acceptance of the inevitable outcome.

While Indiana managed to score two late touchdowns, these efforts did little more than make the final scoreline appear closer. The reality was that Notre Dame’s superior performance, especially in key moments, sealed their victory. The Fighting Irish will now face Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, a team with its own set of challenges. For Indiana, this loss underscores their position as a formidable yet not elite team, a status reinforced by their strong regular season and fortunate scheduling. Despite the lopsided result, Indiana’s presence in the playoff remains a testament to their overall success in 2024.