For nearly two months, discussions surrounding Notre Dame focused on its chances of making the College Football Playoff (CFP) after a Week 2 defeat to Northern Illinois. This conversation then shifted to whether the team could secure a home game in the CFP. Now, the question has become whether Notre Dame has the potential to make a significant impact in the CFP and potentially win the championship.
College football analyst Greg McElroy, who won the national championship as Alabama’s quarterback in 2010, is familiar with what it takes to achieve the highest accolade in college football. Although McElroy’s playing career has ended, he provides analysis and observed Notre Dame closely when he covered their game against Navy in late October. Following the Irish’s strong performance against Florida State, he believes the team has considerable potential, as discussed in his Always College Football Show.
“I do think Notre Dame could win it,” McElroy stated. He noted that quarterback Riley Leonard is improving, the young offensive line is gaining confidence under offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock, and tight end Mitchell Evans is getting healthier. He also applauded the team’s strong running back duo and their aggressive defensive play.
McElroy mentioned key elements required to win a national title, including an experienced quarterback (which Leonard provides), a dominant defensive line (that Notre Dame has with their two tackles), and sufficient skill players, preferably wide receivers but running backs can work as well, given the offensive coordinator knows how to utilize them effectively.
Notre Dame will continue to seek a spot in the College Football Playoff this Saturday when it hosts Virginia on senior day, with kickoff scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET at Notre Dame Stadium, airing on NBC.
