Source: BroBible
Summary
Notre Dame’s strength of schedule has drawn criticism, with Kirk Herbstreit calling it an “embarrassment.” Brady Quinn, a former Notre Dame quarterback, mocked Herbstreit’s comments. Notre Dame has played only three ranked opponents in 2026, with ESPN ranking their schedule as 60th most difficult. The team is guaranteed a College Football Playoff spot if ranked in the top 12. Quinn responded to Herbstreit’s rant with a screenshot, while Herbstreit did not reply.
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Notre Dame didn’t play nobody, Pawl!
Notre Dame is ranked No. 2 in the country, having played just three ranked opponents. Their schedule is seen as weak by some, but they are still in the playoff conversation. The Irish have a guaranteed spot if they stay in the top 12. Their wins have been lopsided, with margins over 20 points in most games. The only real test is against BYU, a ranked team with a 6-0 record.
Brady Quinn mocked Kirk Herbstreit for crying about strength of schedule.
Herbstreit called Notre Dame’s schedule an “embarrassment” for only facing two ranked teams. Quinn, a former Irish QB, responded with a screenshot of Herbstreit crying during a racial justice message. The debate continues, with Notre Dame’s schedule being both praised and criticized. Quinn’s jab was sharp, but Herbstreit stayed silent. The conversation about strength of schedule is unlikely to end.
ESPN rates Notre Dame’s schedule as 60th most difficult.
Notre Dame’s schedule is not as tough as teams like Georgia or Alabama. They have nine games penciled in as wins before the season. Their remaining schedule is rated 41st most difficult. The Irish are guaranteed a playoff spot if they finish in the top 12. Despite this, critics still question their strength of schedule. The debate is as old as college football itself.
Notre Dame is guaranteed a playoff spot if ranked in the top 12.
This clause in their contract ensures they make the playoff if they meet the ranking. It’s a controversial point, but it’s part of the deal. Herbstreit thinks it’s unfair, but Quinn doesn’t care. The Irish are still seen as a top team, even with a weak schedule. Their wins are convincing, but their opponents are not. The strength of schedule debate is far from over.
The conversation about strength of schedule will continue.
Even if Notre Dame joins a conference, the debate will persist. The team is already in the playoff conversation. Herbstreit’s rant was loud, but Quinn’s response was louder. The Irish have proven they can win, but the schedule is still a point of contention. The strength of schedule is a red flag for some, a flex for others. It’s a debate that will keep going.
