Can Notre Dame’s offense keep Freeman’s bye-week streak alive?

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Notre Dame Football Head Coach Marcus Freeman has built a strong track record after a bye-week. He’s undefeated in the regular season with extra rest at 5-0, and 9-1 overall when you count bowls and the playoff. To keep that momentum going, Notre Dame’s offense will need to rise to the challenge.

Against Miami, the Irish put up 314 total yards. Freshman quarterback C.J. Carr was the bright spot, completing 19 of 30 passes for 221 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. His top target was tight end Eli Raridon, who pulled in five catches for 97 yards, including a 65-yard explosive play. The Irish also finished a perfect three-for-three in the red zone.

But the run game struggled. Notre Dame rushed 28 times for just 93 yards, averaging only 3.3 yards per carry. Jadarian Price led with 45 yards on six carries, while Jeremiyah Love added 33 yards on 10 touches. Both Price and wideout Jaden Greathouse emphasized urgency as the focus heading into this week.

Looking ahead, Texas A&M brings firepower—averaging 43 points and nearly 480 yards per game through two weeks. Their balanced attack mixes 300-plus passing yards with over 170 on the ground. Still, the Aggies’ defense has shown vulnerability, giving up 203 rushing yards to UTSA in their opener.

Freeman says the Irish need to stay balanced but also take what the defense gives them. That means protecting Carr and leaning more on Love in the run game. If Notre Dame can find that rhythm, this matchup could swing their way late.