Predicting Notre Dame's Path to Perfection: A Look at the 2026 Football Schedule
Notre Dame's football schedule for the 2026 season is filled with cupcake opponents, making them a strong candidate for an undefeated season. According to Kalshi, the Fighting Irish have a 33% chance of going 12-0 in the regular season, with a trading price of $18.93 for a successful $10 trade and $4.17 if they don't achieve perfection. The schedule includes only the 12 regular-season games, excluding bowl and playoff matchups.
The team faces two significant challenges this season, with games against BYU and Miami in Weeks 7 and 10, respectively. BYU had a successful season last year, going 12-2 and winning the Big 12 Championship, while Miami is a strong National Championship contender. Notre Dame will look to avenge their loss to Miami from last season when they host the game in South Bend.
The rest of Notre Dame's schedule features opponents who struggled last season, with most teams finishing below .500. The Irish will face teams like Navy, SMU, Wisconsin, Purdue, Michigan State, and others who had disappointing records in the previous season. Opening lines for the first three games show Notre Dame as heavy favorites, with percentages ranging from 82% to 93% in their favor.
With a relatively easy schedule ahead, Notre Dame has a good chance of going undefeated in the 2026 college football season. The Fighting Irish will aim to capitalize on their favorable matchups and secure a perfect record in the regular season.