The Miami Hurricanes enter the 2025 college football season looking to build on a rollercoaster 2024 campaign that showcased flashes of brilliance but ultimately fell short of expectations, finishing 8–5 overall and 7–6 against the spread. Head coach Mario Cristobal enters a pivotal third full season at the helm, having assembled one of the nation’s most physically gifted rosters, bolstered by another top-10 recruiting class and key transfer additions, particularly on defense. The Hurricanes’ 2025 identity is expected to center around an aggressive, attacking defense and a high-upside but unproven offense led by either returner Emory Williams or dynamic newcomer Judd Anderson at quarterback. Miami’s offensive line should be a strength again after a strong 2024 showing, anchored by All-ACC tackle Francis Mauigoa and interior mauler Anez Cooper, both of whom will be tasked with neutralizing Notre Dame’s defensive front and giving the quarterback time to make reads. The receiving corps is headlined by sophomore standout Ray Ray Joseph and Ole Miss transfer Chris Marshall, whose speed and separation ability will be key in challenging a veteran Irish secondary. In the backfield, Mark Fletcher Jr. leads a deep running back group that must find consistency against Notre Dame’s typically stout run defense.

The defense will be Miami’s biggest wildcard and potential equalizer in this contest, as new defensive coordinator Lance Guidry returns with a unit that ranked in the top 25 nationally in sacks and tackles for loss last season and brings back key disruptors like Rueben Bain Jr. and Leonard Taylor III. The Hurricanes will need their defensive line to not only pressure Notre Dame’s young quarterback but also slow down the Irish’s zone run scheme, which has worn down defenses in the second half. Miami’s linebackers, including Wesley Bissainthe and Francisco Mauigoa, have the range and physicality to shadow Notre Dame’s backs and tight ends, though staying disciplined will be paramount. In the secondary, the return of safety Kamren Kinchens and cornerback Daryl Porter Jr. offers Miami experience and playmaking ability, particularly in single-high and man coverage looks. Playing at home in a prime-time spotlight game, Miami has the emotional edge and athletic profile to compete toe-to-toe if they avoid self-inflicted mistakes that plagued them in key moments last season. Cristobal’s teams have historically started strong when well-prepared, and all eyes will be on whether this year’s version has the maturity and cohesion to pull off an upset against a College Football Playoff contender. Special teams also offer a potential X-factor with kicker Andres Borregales returning after another steady year and Brashard Smith dangerous in the return game. Ultimately, Miami’s ability to disrupt Notre Dame’s timing and force them into obvious passing downs could swing the contest, especially if they generate early turnovers and energize the home crowd. This is a measuring-stick game for Cristobal’s program and a chance to prove that Miami is not just fast and talented, but also disciplined and resilient enough to contend on the national stage. If Miami starts fast, limits penalties, and plays with confidence, they have the tools to push the Irish deep into the fourth quarter and possibly come away with a season-defining win.