In a game that was never in doubt, Notre Dame demonstrated its championship pedigree with a dominant 38-10 victory over an overmatched Indiana squad. The matchup, eagerly anticipated for its in-state rivalry, quickly turned into a showcase of the Irish’s power and precision, as they proved too much for the Hoosiers at every turn.
From the opening kickoff, Notre Dame established control, using a relentless ground game and an airtight defense that suffocated Indiana’s offense. Quarterback Sam Hartman, who had been on fire all season, continued to dazzle with pinpoint throws, finishing with over 300 yards passing and three touchdowns. His connection with star receiver Jaden Greathouse was particularly lethal, as the duo connected for two touchdowns in the first half alone. The Irish’s offensive line, perhaps the most imposing in the country, opened massive holes for running backs Audric Estime and Jeremiah Love, who combined for over 150 yards on the ground. Estime’s bruising style wore down the Hoosiers, while Love added a burst of speed to keep the defense guessing.
The Hoosiers, however, showed resilience in their attempts to stay in the game. Quarterback Tayven Jackson, though harried all night, managed to keep his team alive with a couple of big throws. His lone touchdown pass to tight end Josh Henderson kept Indiana within striking distance at halftime, but that would be the last bright moment for the Hoosiers.
Notre Dame’s defense, led by standout linebacker Jack Kiser, adjusted after halftime and overwhelmed Jackson with relentless pressure. Kiser, flying sideline to sideline, helped neutralize the Indiana rushing attack, and cornerback Benjamin Morrison picked off a pass in the third quarter, setting up a short touchdown run by Estime to extend the lead. The Hoosiers’ hopes were dashed in the third quarter, as Notre Dame’s special teams added insult to injury. A blocked punt, recovered in the end
