The No. 1 Hurricanes have their biggest regular-season game this weekend, and for the first time this season, they will be the underdog.
No. 4 Notre Dame is a 5 1/2-point favorite for Saturday night’s game in South Bend, Indiana, according to FanDuel. That line has increased in Notre Dame’s favor over the last several days after Miami’s close win over North Carolina last weekend.
The Fighting Irish were originally 7 1/2-point favorites before the season began. The line shrank as the Hurricanes ascended to the top spot in the AP Top 25. Miami was a 3 1/2-point underdog on Oct. 27, according to Hard Rock Bet.
But Miami’s close victories against conference opponents North Carolina and Florida State have likely caused the line to shift more toward Notre Dame.
The Hurricanes’ pass defense struggled against the Tar Heels last week, and the Fighting Irish have an even better passing attack led by quarterback C.J. Carr.
Miami beat Notre Dame 27-24 at Hard Rock Stadium last season. It was the Hurricanes’ biggest win of the year and vaulted them into the playoffs. This year’s game also has playoff implications — especially for Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish lost against No. 7 BYU, which is their only result against a currently ranked opponent.
If Notre Dame loses to Miami this week, it could put the Fighting Irish in a similar spot as last season and could keep them out of the playoffs.
The game means less to Miami’s postseason chances, as the result does not affect the Hurricanes’ conference standing. If Miami wins the ACC, it will earn an automatic berth in the playoffs. If Miami does not win the ACC, then Saturday’s result would likely affect their at-large chances.