Notre Dame comes in at No. 2 in Andy Staples’ Post-Spring Top 25; the only other team on Notre Dame’s 2025 schedule that is ranked in this Top 25 is Miami, which is ranked 20th.
In the realm of college football, few programs boast the storied history and national prominence of the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish. As the 2025 season approaches, the Fighting Irish find themselves in a familiar position: ranked No. 2 in Andy Staples’ post-spring Top 25. This distinction not only underscores the program’s sustained excellence but also sets the stage for an intriguing season, particularly with the season opener against the Miami Hurricanes, ranked No. 20.
Andy Staples, a respected college football analyst, has consistently highlighted Notre Dame’s resilience and talent. Their ascent to the No. 2 spot in his post-spring rankings is a testament to the program’s depth and strategic acumen. The Fighting Irish’s performance in the 2024 season, culminating in a narrow loss to Ohio State in the College Football Playoff National Championship, showcased their elite status. With a 14-2 record, they secured victories over top-ranked teams like Penn State, Georgia, and Army, further solidifying their position as national contenders. One Foot Down
The Miami Hurricanes, under the guidance of head coach Mario Cristobal, have undergone a significant transformation. Staples has lauded Miami’s strategic blend of high school and transfer portal recruiting, emphasizing the development of both offensive and defensive lines. Key players such as offensive linemen Francis Mauigoa and Samson Okunlola, along with defensive standout Rueben Bain, are poised to lead the Hurricanes back to prominence. On3
The matchup between Notre Dame and Miami is more than just a season opener; it’s a revival of one of college football’s most iconic rivalries. The 1988 “Catholics vs. Convicts” game remains a benchmark in college football history, with Notre Dame narrowly defeating Miami 31–30. This victory propelled the Fighting Irish to a national championship, while Miami finished the season ranked No. 2. Wikipedia
Over the years, the two programs have faced each other intermittently, with Notre Dame leading the series 17–8–1. Their most recent encounter in 2017 saw Miami securing a decisive 41–8 victory. The upcoming game on August 31, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami is anticipated to be a high-stakes contest, reigniting the fierce competition between these two powerhouse programs. Wikipedia
For Notre Dame, the game against Miami serves as a critical early-season test. A victory would not only bolster their national title aspirations but also provide momentum as they navigate a challenging schedule that includes matchups against Texas A&M, Arkansas, and USC. Conversely, a loss could have significant implications for their playoff positioning, given the College Football Playoff’s emphasis on conference championships and strength of schedule.
Miami, on the other hand, views this game as an opportunity to reassert themselves on the national stage. A win against the No. 2 ranked team would be a statement to the college football world of their resurgence and potential as a playoff contender.ndsmcobserver.com
The 2025 season opener between Notre Dame and Miami is poised to be a defining moment in college football. With both teams ranked in the Top 25, the game promises to deliver high-intensity action and showcase the rich traditions of these two historic programs. As the season unfolds, the outcomes of such marquee matchups will undoubtedly influence the trajectory of the College Football Playoff race, making this contest one to watch closely.
