Notre Dame Football: Top Storylines vs Iowa State

Chasing Win No. 11

It’s a little disappointing that Notre Dame is in a position to win it’s 11th game of the season in such a underwhelming fashion. Many have called this game a lose-lose situation, where a Notre Dame win is expected and doesn’t mean anything, and a loss is an embarrassing end result to a season that failed to meet initial expectations.

While both of these statements are somewhat true, a win Saturday would be a huge way to not only cap off 2019, but to kick-start 2020. I know playing in the Camping World Bowl was not circled on any Notre Dame fan’s pre-season goals list, but it is what it is. Notre Dame was rightfully punished for their loss to Michigan and put themselves in this position, but I would much rather be in this position fighting for win No. 11, rather than being 8-4 with nothing to play for.

An 11-2 record would also prove to be an historic mark that hasn’t been met much in the history of Notre Dame. Only seven other times in program history have the Irish met or surpassed the 11-win mark: 1973, 1977, 1988, 1989, 1993, 2012, and 2018.

Additionally, reaching 11 wins this year would tie a program record for wins over a three year stretch with 33, which was set from 1988-1990.

Basically, although a disappointing position to be in at the end of the season, there is still a lot to be playing for this weekend. 11+ wins in a season is not easy to do, and Notre Dame has a chance to do it in back-to-back seasons.

So, when the ball kicks off this Saturday, don’t focus on all the negatives. Try to see the bigger picture and appreciate where this program is, compared to where it was just a few short years ago.