SEC’s loudest voice says Notre Dame fated for the CFP, calls Marcus Freeman 'elite'

The Notre Dame football team is expected to make some serious noise this season, but few analysts have been more effusive about the Fighting Irish's chances than Paul Finebaum.

During a recent appearance on ESPN's Get Up program, the topic turned to what to expect from Marcus Freeman and Co.'s team. Finebaum, usually an SEC-centric talking head, made it clear that he feels as though Freeman, especially, gives the team a big leg up on the opposition.

Paul Finebaum: Marcus Freeman the X-factor in Notre Dame football’s CFP bid

Finebaum was asked if the Notre Dame football team would make it back to the playoffs in 2025, and he wasted no time in his response:

"Yes, and the reason is the head coach," the analyst responded. "Marcus Freeman is elite. He showed that last year, beating and out-coaching James Franklin in the crunch at the Orange Bowl. It was brilliant. It was a master class, and he nearly pulled it off against Ohio State."

"He has done more with less talent than anybody in college football. So therefore, even though this team has serious question marks, they have a difficult schedule opening against Miami. I think he will find a way to mold them and push them back into the playoffs. Maybe a decent run."

Considering that Finebaum tends to be more critical than positive, it was indeed quite the endorsement. There are some blind spots in that review of the Irish. The talent level is a big one.

However, the Fighting Irish have fallen short of the very top of the recruiting class rankings the last few years.

Should Paul Finebaum be correct and Marcus Freeman is the x-factor in getting the Notre Dame football back to the playoffs, and maybe even "make a run," there are zero Fighting Irish fans who would be upset.