Stanford Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2017

Last, but certainly not least, is Stanford’s matchup with Notre Dame in the final game of the season. The two programs have developed a decent rivalry over the years and the games are usually close, no matter what each team’s record is.

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The perfect example of that was last season when the Cardinal was just 3-2 and the Fighting Irish were reeling. Stanford and Notre Dame still battled out quite the contest, finishing with a 17-10 final. Expect a similar outcome this season.

Although Notre Dame’s defense wasn’t all that great a season ago, it still has the potential to keep opponents in check. The talent is there, all that’s left is the execution. This game will be close for the entirety and it will come down to who has the ball last.

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Although it’s in Stanford, the Fighting Irish are going to exact revenge for last year’s close loss in South Bend. Notre Dame will be much-improved this season and it will show. The Irish will shock the nation, knocking off a top-10 team and a serious playoff contender.

Final: Notre Dame 21, Stanford 17 (10-2, 8-1 Pac-12)