The Notre Dame Fighting Irish picked up a statement win, defeating Navy in a blowout 49-10. That kept the Irish within the College Football Playoff discussion, after a reveal earlier this week included them in the early bracket.
The win included an impressive game from several individuals, including quarterback CJ Carr with 218 passing yards and three touchdowns. Receiver Malachi Fields caught four passes for 94 yards, while Carr threw touchdowns to KK Smith and Jordan Faison.
In addition, Notre Dame’s ground game was significant, with Jeremiyah Love achieving 94 yards and two touchdowns in the victory. Following the game, he received a strong statement from his head coach, Marcus Freeman.
A reporter asked about Love’s contributions and being in the Heisman Trophy conversation, prompting Freeman to offer a strong endorsement of his receiver.
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“In my mind, yes, he is. There’s no question about it,” Freeman said when asked if Love is a Heisman candidate.
“You know, you talk about one of the best players in the country, if he’s not one of them, then you know, it’s hard to believe how many other players are that special,” he told the media.
“He’s a special player, and he had a great week of prep. He continues to do things that you haven’t seen, but things you know, you’re just not surprised with Jeremiyah Love,” Freeman said.
Love is currently in his third season with the Irish and has compiled 894 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground. He’s also got 227 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Many mock drafts consider him a first-round pick, potentially going in the top 15 of the 2026 NFL Draft.
He’s currently listed amongst the Heisman Trophy candidates, but is also considered a long shot to win. The current favorite is Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, followed by Ohio State’s Julian Sayin and Alabama’s Ty Simpson.
The latest win by the Fighting Irish improved their overall record to 7-2 and their home record to 5-1. They remain ranked at No. 10 in the nation.
Based on a theoretical CFP bracket released earlier this week at NCAA.com, Notre Dame’s first round would begin with a game against the BYU Cougars. However, BYU lost to Texas Tech on Saturday.
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