Notre Dame’s journey through the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff was marked by resilience, grit, and two unforgettable performances. The Fighting Irish’s semifinal victory over Penn State was a nail-biter that came down to the final moments, with Notre Dame edging out a 27-24 win.
The game was a showcase of clutch playmaking, highlighted by Jaden Greenhouse’s 54-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter and a game-winning field goal from Mitch Jeter. Penn State fought valiantly, with tight end Tyler Warren playing a standout role, but Notre Dame’s defense came up big when it mattered most, forcing a critical late interception to seal the win.
Earlier in the quarterfinals, Notre Dame pulled off another impressive victory, defeating Georgia 23-10. The Sugar Bowl was a defensive battle that saw the Fighting Irish capitalize on key moments, including a kickoff return for a touchdown and a pivotal Georgia fumble. The win showcased Notre Dame’s ability to grind out tough games against elite competition.
These victories underscored Notre Dame’s standing as a program built for the postseason. While their run ultimately ended in the championship game, their performances in the expanded CFP left no doubt about their place among college football’s elite.
