The Notre Dame football team has officially entered the final stretch of the regular season, and that means that wins are essential, but how they win is even more critical. Add in that the game against Syracuse is Senior Day, and Saturday afternoon's contest against the Orange will have plenty of emotion. That despite the fact that the Fighting Irish are heavy favorites against an Orange squad just playing out the string.
Coming in as massive favorites, Marcus Freeman's squad has not just to win, but win with style points. This can't be another Boston College game. Syracuse is not a good team. They're even worse with a walk-on starting at quarterback.
With the debate over the College Football Playoffs in full swing, Notre Dame can't afford to lose a step in these final two games. This needs to be total domination from beginning to end.
Notre Dame vs Syracuse final odds
The point spread for this game opened with the Irish as the biggest favorites they've been all season. They started the week as 35.5-point favorites over Syracuse.
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the spread has gotten even bigger. Notre Dame is now a 36.5-point favorite.
Notre Dame football vs Syracuse final prediction
Early in the season, the Irish can be accused of having focus issues under Marcus Freeman. However, this time of year, they tend to lock in and take care of business.
This is the second straight year that every game is part of the playoffs. Keep winning and they're in. Lose or look bad, and they're out. They'll take care of business, especially against a shorthanded ACC also-ran.
Notre Dame football: 56 Syracuse 10.