Notre Dame football is generating serious buzz heading into the upcoming season, and CBS Sports has taken notice. In their latest post-spring all-team rankings, the Fighting Irish have secured a top-four spot, trailing only Ohio State, Texas, and Oregon. While no expert put Notre Dame at No. 1—those votes went to the Buckeyes, Longhorns, Ducks, and Miami—the consensus is clear: the Irish are a powerhouse in the making.

Looking ahead to the 2026 schedule, Notre Dame faces a gauntlet that includes No. 7 Miami, No. 15 BYU, and No. 20 SMU. This tough slate means there will be no doubt about their College Football Playoff credentials if they earn a berth. Even with two losses, the strength of their schedule should keep them in contention. For fans and analysts alike, this is a team poised to make a statement, and the rankings reflect that confidence.

Whether you're stocking up on Fighting Irish gear or just keeping an eye on the top contenders, Notre Dame's trajectory is one to watch this season.