Notre Dame Beats USC 49-35, Advances to Playoffs

No. 5 Notre Dame secured a spot in the College Football Playoff with a 49-35 victory over USC, marking their 10th consecutive win. The Fighting Irish's defense shone with late-game pick-sixes by Christian Gray and Xavier Watts, each returning interceptions for touchdowns. Riley Leonard contributed with two touchdown passes and a rushing score, while Notre Dame's running backs, Jadarian Price and Jeremiyah Love, combined for 210 rushing yards. USC's Jayden Maiava threw for 360 yards and rushed for two touchdowns but could not overcome the turnovers. This win also allowed Notre Dame to retain the Jeweled Shillelagh in their storied rivalry with the Trojans. The Irish completed the regular season with an impressive 11-1 record, outperforming their earlier loss to Northern Illinois.