8. Virginia Tech (Nov. 2)
Danger zone — no, not the game against Navy, but against Virginia Tech. After an emotional win against Michigan, the Irish will be in grave danger of dropping an easy win at home against Virginia Tech.
Notre Dame players will likely be dealing with nagging injuries from the tough game the week before. They will definitely be fatigued due to the Michigan game and the shear fact that they will be three months into the season.
This fatigue will not be as big of a factor for the Hokies for they will be coming off a timely bye week. Justin Fuente is in his fourth season as head coach of the Virginia Tech football program. Since he began his tenure, the Hokies’ season records have progressively gotten worse. Fuente could very well be on the hot seat and a win over the Irish alone could take him off of it.
Notre Dame will likely pull out a win, but it won’t be comfortable.
Final: Notre Dame 21, Virginia Tech 17 (7-1)