The preseason college football landscape has once again been painted with a familiar shade of blue and gold, as the Notre Dame Fighting Irish have secured a coveted spot in the initial Coaches Poll top-5 rankings.1 This is a powerful statement about the program’s perceived strength and a testament to the belief that the Irish are once again poised to be a national championship contender. Coming off a 2024 season that saw them make a deep playoff run and finish with a No. 2 final ranking, the No. 5 preseason spot reflects a continuity of success and high expectations.2
For a program with such a rich history and a global fanbase, a top-5 ranking is not just a number—it’s a declaration. It signifies that the coaches, who are the most knowledgeable and discerning group of voters, see something special in the current iteration of the Fighting Irish. This isn’t a one-off achievement. This is the second time in the last four seasons that Marcus Freeman’s team has opened the year ranked fifth in the Coaches Poll, a remarkable feat that speaks to the sustained quality of the program under his leadership. The last time Notre Dame was ranked this high in the preseason was in 2022, Freeman’s first season at the helm.3 While that season didn’t live up to the initial hype, the 2024 campaign, which began with a No. 7 ranking, far exceeded expectations and proved the program’s upward trajectory. This new ranking, therefore, carries the weight of that recent success and suggests that the Irish are ready to build on it.
The preseason poll itself is a fascinating document. It’s a snapshot of the college football world before a single snap has been taken, and it’s always a hotbed of debate. This year’s poll is no different, with Texas at No. 1, followed by Ohio State, Penn State, and Georgia.4 The presence of Penn State and Georgia ahead of Notre Dame is particularly interesting, given that the Irish defeated both of those teams during their successful 2024 playoff run.5 These are the kinds of rankings that fuel passionate online discussions and provide talking points for sports radio for weeks. For the Irish, being ranked just behind these powerhouse programs gives them a clear target and a sense of belonging among the sport’s elite.
While the Irish did not receive any first-place votes, the respect from the coaching community is palpable. They are seen as a team that, despite some key roster turnover, has the talent and coaching to compete at the highest level. The team’s offensive and defensive cores remain strong, and the coaching staff has proven its ability to develop players and navigate a challenging schedule. The question marks for the team lie in the quarterback position, where a competition is ongoing. However, the presence of promising talent in the form of redshirt sophomore Kenny Minchey and sophomore C.J. Carr suggests that the team is in good hands.6 The return of key players like running back Jeremiyah Love, wide receiver Jaden Greathouse, cornerback Leonard Moore, and linebacker Drayk Bowen provides a strong foundation for the new season.7
The schedule for the Fighting Irish is always a formidable one, and this year is no exception. They will be tested early and often, with a season-opening road game against No. 10 Miami and a home opener against No. 21 Texas A&M. These early games will be critical in shaping the team’s identity and proving whether they deserve their top-5 ranking. A strong showing against these ranked opponents would not only solidify their position but also build momentum for a potential playoff push.
The importance of this preseason ranking extends beyond just bragging rights. In the new era of the expanded College Football Playoff, a high preseason ranking gives a team a significant advantage. It establishes a baseline of respect and sets the narrative for the season. A team that starts in the top-5 has more room for error and is more likely to remain in the playoff conversation even with an early loss. For an independent program like Notre Dame, which does not have a conference championship game to bolster its resume, a strong start and a consistently high ranking are even more crucial.
The history of the Notre Dame football program is one defined by high expectations and the pursuit of championships. From the iconic figures of Knute Rockne and the Four Horsemen to the more recent success under Brian Kelly and now Marcus Freeman, the program has always been synonymous with excellence. This latest top-5 ranking is a continuation of that legacy. It’s a signal to the college football world that Notre Dame is back in the mix and ready to challenge for a national title. The pressure that comes with such a ranking is immense, but it’s a pressure that the players and coaches in South Bend have come to embrace. They know that with great expectation comes the opportunity for great reward. The 2025 season promises to be a thrilling one, and the Irish are starting it in the best possible position to make a run at the ultimate prize.
