The latest data and lines show that Notre Dame lands the best odds, but there could be some challengers ready to take over.

Beginning with the 2026 season, which for Notre Dame launches September 6 with a game against Wisconsin, the Irish will wear a new patch on their jerseys, signifying not a school tradition or the uniform manufacturer, but something else entirely, something that's changing college football beginning this year. Let's take a closer look.

The Notre Dame football program comes into the 2026 season with a lot of expectations, a lot of talent, but some clear question marks. How the team— starting with quarterback CJ Carr —answers those questions will dictate how the Fighting Irish do this season and where the Notre Dame prospects go in the 2027 NFL Draft.

Notre Dame is a popular national title pick among college football media.

The Fighting Irish are paying tribute to legendary coach Lou Holtz this season. Here's how Notre Dame plans to honor his legacy.