Greg McElroy explains why Miami vs. Notre Dame is a Top 10 non-conference game in 2025.

College football fans are eagerly awaiting one of the most anticipated non-conference matchups of the 2025 season: Miami Hurricanes versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. ESPN analyst and former NFL quarterback Greg McElroy recently weighed in on why this game stands out among the myriad of contests scheduled for next year, ranking it as a Top 10 non-conference showdown. His insights highlight the historical significance, competitive stakes, and broader implications of this high-profile game.

In this article, we explore McElroy’s reasoning, the context of the rivalry, and what makes this Miami-Notre Dame game a must-watch event for college football fans nationwide.

Historical Context of the Miami-Notre Dame Rivalry

Greg McElroy begins by emphasizing the rich history that surrounds the Miami Hurricanes and Notre Dame Fighting Irish programs. Though the teams have not played each other frequently in recent decades, their past matchups have produced some of the most memorable moments in college football history.

During the 1980s and 1990s, Miami and Notre Dame were powerhouses that frequently clashed on the national stage. The rivalry reached its zenith in classic games like the 1988 “Catholics vs. Convicts” showdown, where both teams were contenders for the national championship. These battles were defined by their intensity, drama, and high stakes, captivating audiences across the country.

McElroy points out that while the rivalry has been dormant in recent years, the upcoming 2025 game signals a revival of one of college football’s greatest matchups. The renewal of this storied rivalry adds emotional weight and narrative depth to the contest, making it much more than just another regular-season game.

Competitive Significance: Top Teams Head-to-Head

Another key reason McElroy ranks this game among the Top 10 non-conference matchups is the expected quality and ranking of both teams entering the 2025 season.

Notre Dame is coming off a strong season, having competed for a national championship and returning a roster stacked with talent and experience. The Fighting Irish are known for their balanced team, blending a dynamic offense with a disciplined defense.

Miami, meanwhile, is eager to rebound after a late-season slump the previous year. The Hurricanes have made significant strides in recruiting and player development, positioning themselves as a formidable opponent in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and nationally.

McElroy highlights that both teams are expected to be ranked in the top 25 at kickoff, raising the stakes of the game considerably. Non-conference games featuring highly ranked teams are relatively rare and often serve as early-season barometers for championship aspirations.

The combination of historical rivalry and top-tier talent sets the stage for a competitive, high-energy contest that could have implications for college football’s playoff picture.

The Venue and Atmosphere: Hard Rock Stadium Advantage

The location of the game adds another layer of intrigue, McElroy explains. The 2025 matchup will take place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida — the Hurricanes’ home turf.

Hard Rock Stadium is known for its passionate fans and electric atmosphere, making it a challenging environment for visiting teams. The stadium’s vibrant energy will amplify the intensity of the game, providing a stage worthy of a Top 10 matchup.

Playing in Miami also means dealing with heat, humidity, and a hostile crowd, factors that can influence the dynamics of the game. McElroy notes that the home-field advantage will test Notre Dame’s resilience early in the season, setting the tone for their campaign.

Impact on Recruiting and Program Momentum

McElroy also points to the recruiting and program momentum implications tied to this game. High-profile non-conference matchups like Miami vs. Notre Dame serve as showcases for coaches to impress recruits and demonstrate program strength.

For Miami, beating a historic power like Notre Dame on home soil would be a significant statement, reinforcing their resurgence in college football’s elite tier.

For Notre Dame, overcoming the hostile environment and tough opponent underscores their consistency as a national powerhouse.

Such marquee games attract extensive media coverage, boosting exposure for both programs. This spotlight helps with recruiting battles, especially in talent-rich regions like Florida, where Miami has traditional ties.

Television Ratings and National Attention

Greg McElroy highlights that the Miami-Notre Dame game is poised to draw massive national television audiences, given its narrative, competitiveness, and timing.

Scheduled early in the season, the game offers an exciting start that can generate buzz for the entire college football year. Broadcasters and advertisers prize such games for their ability to attract millions of viewers and set the tone for the season’s drama.

McElroy notes that TV ratings for previous Miami-Notre Dame games were consistently strong, and the 2025 matchup is expected to continue that trend. The game’s prime time slot further ensures maximum visibility.

The Coaches and Their Storylines

The coaching matchup adds another compelling dimension, McElroy says. Both Miami and Notre Dame will feature coaches eager to prove their programs’ elite status.

Notre Dame’s coaching staff, with their experience in navigating pressure-packed games and national title runs, will look to maintain the program’s legacy.

Miami’s coaching team, focused on returning the Hurricanes to prominence, will view this game as a litmus test of their progress and potential.

These narratives create added drama, as the game becomes a proving ground for coaching philosophies and leadership.

The Broader Implications for College Football

Beyond the teams involved, McElroy stresses that this game exemplifies why college football’s non-conference schedule matters so much.

In an era where conference play dominates headlines, high-profile non-conference games offer unique excitement and unpredictability. They pit different styles and traditions against one another, enriching the sport’s competitive landscape.

Miami vs. Notre Dame in 2025 embodies this spirit, bringing together history, rivalry, talent, and stakes in one package.

McElroy believes that such games enhance the sport’s overall appeal and contribute to the evolving narrative of college football seasons.

Greg McElroy’s insights make it clear why Miami vs. Notre Dame ranks among the Top 10 non-conference games of 2025. It is a clash rich in history, featuring two elite programs, set in an electrifying venue, and carrying significant implications for rankings, recruiting, and national attention.

For fans, it promises a thrilling contest with emotional and competitive intensity. For analysts and insiders, it serves as an early-season benchmark for the power dynamics in college football.

As the 2025 season approaches, the Miami Hurricanes and Notre Dame Fighting Irish will prepare to renew their rivalry on one of the sport’s biggest stages — a game worthy of the highest expectations.