The Notre Dame Fighting Irish is one of the premier programs in college football, and the brand is recognizable worldwide. The South Bend team has a rich, extensive history but has disappointed in the College Football Playoff era.
However, that narrative could change in 2024.
Notre Dame Playoff Appearances and Results by Year
- 2019
Cotton Bowl: Loss vs. Clemson, 30-3
- 2021
Rose Bowl: Loss vs. Alabama, 31-14
- 2024
vs. Indiana, TBD
In 2024, the Fighting Irish will make their third appearance in the College Football Playoff. Their first appearance was in 2019 when Notre Dame, ranked third in the nation after finishing the regular season undefeated, faced the Clemson Tigers in the Cotton Bowl. Unfortunately, that season ended disappointingly for the Irish, as they scored only three points in the postseason.
They had to wait until 2021 for their next playoff opportunity. During the COVID-19 season, Notre Dame was ranked fourth by the selection committee after joining the ACC for that single season. Regrettably, their playoff run ended with a 31-14 loss to the Alabama Crimson Tide in the Rose Bowl.
Notre Dame Playoff History FAQ
What’s Notre Dame’s Playoff Win/Loss Record?
The Fighting Irish have made two College Football Playoff appearances but have yet to win a game in this premier event. Notre Dame is 0-2 in the playoffs after disappointing losses to Clemson and Alabama.
How Many Times Has Notre Dame Been to the College Football Playoff?
2024 marks the third time Notre Dame has reached the College Football Playoff, with its first venture to the sports showcase coming in 2019. After failing to win a game in their previous two appearances, Marcus Freeman’s side will be eager for their first playoff win this season.
How Many National Championship Appearances Does Notre Dame Have?
Notre Dame has participated in only one National Championship Game, the 2013 BCS National Championship Game, which they lost to Nick Saban’s Alabama. However, the Irish have yet to compete in a National Championship Game during the College Football Playoff era.
Without an official conference title game to contend for, it is more challenging for the Irish to qualify for the playoffs. Additionally, they have underperformed in their two previous playoff appearances, failing to secure a victory in both instances.
How Many National Championships Have Notre Dame Won?
Notre Dame is one of college football’s most historic programs, boasting 11 National Championships recognized by the NCAA. Between 1924 and 1988, the Fighting Irish were among the most successful teams in the nation, claiming these 11 titles.
FOLLOW ALONG: Track Every Transfer Portal Entrant in our CFN Transfer Portal Tracker now!
In addition, 11 further championships are credited to Notre Dame, though the university does not officially claim them. From 1919 to 2012, various systems were used to determine the national champion, but the Irish chose not to declare themselves as the official winners during those years.
When Was the Last Time Notre Dame Made the National Championship Game?
Notre Dame has not participated in a National Championship Game since the introduction of the playoff format in 2014. However, in 2013, the Irish lost the BCS National Championship Game to the Crimson Tide.
The last time the Fighting Irish won a championship was in 1988, when they finished the season 12-0 and claimed victory over West Virginia in the Fiesta Bowl under coach Lou Holtz.
College Football Network has you covered with the latest from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, SEC, and every Group of Five conference and FBS Independent program.