Notre Dame enters the 2026 college football season as a co-favorite to win the national championship, aiming to validate lofty expectations when they face Wisconsin on Sunday at Lambeau Field. The Fighting Irish, who were controversially left out of the College Football Playoff last season, return significant talent, including a highly-rated quarterback and a strong offensive line.
Despite losing key playmakers from the previous season, Notre Dame's CJ Carr is expected to lead an efficient offense. Carr, a redshirt freshman, demonstrated efficiency last season and will be protected by one of the nation's top offensive lines. Wisconsin's defense, which ranked 22nd in SP+ and 43rd in yards per play in 2025, faces the challenge of containing an offense adept at extending drives.
On the other side, Wisconsin's offense is expected to be a key factor, led by quarterback Colton Joseph. Joseph was instrumental in Old Dominion's 10-3 season in 2025, accounting for 34 touchdowns through the air and on the ground. His dual-threat capabilities present a significant challenge for Notre Dame's defense, which aims to improve its pass rush this season.
The matchup is projected to be a high-scoring affair, with oddsmakers setting the over/under at 46.5 points. Both teams boast quarterbacks capable of generating offense, suggesting a potential shootout rather than a defensive struggle. Notre Dame is a 20.5-point favorite in the contest.