With College Football Playoff expansion almost a given thanks to the Big Ten and SEC, Notre Dame's independence only gains strength.

The Fighting Irish received the No. 7 seed in the playoffs, despite being ranked No. 5 in the final CFP rankings. This drop to No. 7 occurred because the Boise State Broncos and Arizona State Sun Devils, despite being ranked lower than Notre Dame, were able to secure spots in the top four due to their status as conference champions.

Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Jeremiah Smith proved that he is one of the most explosive options in the country this past season, and perhaps no one knows t

Notre Dame defensive coordinator Chris Ash outlined his vision for the Irish defense in his first comments since taking over the position