SOUTH BEND, Ind.: No. 9 Notre Dame closed its regular season in commanding fashion Saturday, overpowering Stanford 49-20 at Stanford Stadium to improve to 11-1 and strengthen its College Football Playoff résumé.
While the victory never appeared in doubt after the Irish built a 28-10 halftime lead, the afternoon belonged to several players who seized expanded opportunities and left lasting impressions heading into the postseason.
Running back Jeremiyah Love, playing through a rib injury, carried 14 times for 66 yards and scored the touchdown that set a new Notre Dame single-season record for rushing touchdowns. His physical running style kept drives alive and allowed the Irish to manage the clock effectively in the first half.
Third-string running back Aneyas Williams provided the day’s biggest spark. The freshman rushed 10 times for 83 yards, including a 51-yard burst, and added two receptions for 40 yards. His explosive cuts and acceleration gave Notre Dame a different gear once the outcome was decided.
Jadarian Price complemented the ground attack with 15 rushing yards on six attempts and caught three passes for 40 yards, one of which he turned into a short touchdown. The junior’s versatility in the passing game added another dimension to an already potent Irish offense.
Wide receiver Jordan Faison continued his strong sophomore campaign with three receptions for 68 yards. His 54-yard catch-and-run early in the second quarter flipped field position and directly led to another Notre Dame score.
True freshman quarterback CJ Carr entered in relief and completed 17 of 27 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions. Displaying composure well beyond his years, Carr distributed the ball accurately and kept the Irish offense on schedule before giving way to the reserves in the second half.
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The blowout victory allowed head coach Marcus Freeman to empty the bench while still maintaining complete control. Notre Dame finished with 534 yards of total offense and converted 8 of 13 third-down attempts against a Stanford defense that struggled to slow the Irish rushing attack.
With the regular season complete, Notre Dame now awaits its postseason destination, widely expected to be a first-round home game in the expanded College Football Playoff. Saturday’s dominant performance, particularly from players who may see increased roles in the weeks ahead, only bolstered confidence that this Irish team is built for a deep run.
