After a rocky 0-2 start that left fans anxious and critics circling, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish have battled their way back into relevance with a 5-2 record. The turnaround has been gritty, but it’s far from complete. With five regular-season games left, the message inside the locker room is simple yet powerful: control what you can control. If the Irish win out, the College Football Playoff picture could still include a golden helmet.
However, the journey ahead is full of critical questions that could determine whether Marcus Freeman’s squad finishes strong—or fades late. Chief among them is the real story of CJ Carr, the highly touted young quarterback who continues to draw attention. Carr’s arm talent and composure have fans buzzing, but the staff remains careful with his development. Will he get a chance to show flashes of what’s next for Notre Dame’s offense, or will the coaches keep him waiting in the wings a bit longer?
Then there’s Chris Ash, whose defensive influence is beginning to show. The former Texas and Ohio State assistant has brought an edge and discipline to the Irish defense that had been missing in the early weeks. His schemes have added variety and unpredictability, especially in crucial third-down situations. Still, the defense must tighten up against elite opponents to sustain this late-season push.
Perhaps the biggest concern lies in the offensive line depth—a hallmark of Notre Dame football that hasn’t looked quite as dominant this year. Injuries and inconsistency have forced Freeman to shuffle players, testing both chemistry and stamina. For the Irish to close strong, the front five must rediscover their rhythm and open lanes for the run game that once defined their identity.
With destiny still within reach, every snap, tackle, and decision over the next month will matter. The Irish have weathered the storm, but their greatest test lies ahead. If Marcus Freeman’s team can stay healthy, play disciplined football, and find stability across both trenches, Notre Dame could once again find itself knocking at the playoff door—with CJ Carr’s future and Chris Ash’s defense lighting the way forward.