In college football, there is one team that reigns supreme. A team whose record is exceptional, always ranking towards the top but usually steering clear from number one. A team where a crowd amasses regardless of the opponent. A fanbase like no other, for an athletic program that is unheard of – Notre Dame.
Around this time last year, my family was preparing for the matchup between Notre Dame and Virginia Tech. Looking at back-row tickets that started at $800, I knew the game was important for a multitude of reasons. I assumed that the most significant aspect of the game was the fact that if Virginia Tech won, they would earn a spot in the top 25; however, whenever people spoke about the game, all they said was "it is Notre Dame, of course, it is a big game." If anybody follows Notre Dame or Virginia Tech, you will know that the Hokies lost by a substantial 45-23 loss, but the power that a game versus Notre Dame has for any school still stands true. So even after people spend $800 to watch their team lose tragically against the amazing Fighting Irish, a person can only ask, what makes Notre Dame so great and appreciated?
When the 2019 football schedule first came out, one thing stood out for Georgia football enthusiasts – September 21st, the Bulldogs will be playing Notre Dame in Sanford Stadium for the first time since 1981. Most people suspected that ESPN would host Week 4 of College GameDay in Athens, which has become a reality.
With my friends and family from back home, excited for me, it makes a person wonder, what is all the hype over the Fighting Irish? The answer is simple, over the last century, Notre Dame has claimed 11 national championships, 7 Heisman Trophy winners and over 495 players have been selected for the NFL Draft. These stats paired with the fact that Notre Dame is the only college where home games have been televised on NBC since 1991, make the football program a standout in the nation – capable of remaining an independent.
Every university has a fanbase. Despite my unwavering love for the Dawgs, the Fighting Irish has some of the most devoted fans who span across the country. While the team may seem overly hyped – not being ranked as first since 2012 – the program's reputation of a tradition of success allows it to thrive so easily.
College football has a large following, and both Georgia and Notre Dame have a lot to lose after Saturday's game. This weekend's contest is highly competitive because after the final quarter, one team will leave victorious and the other's ranking will be affected. More than just rank, the game will show the nation what both teams have to offer – more than just skill but also how much heart and soul the players are willing to put forth. Will Notre Dame fight through or is Georgia going to send the Irish back to the Dawg pound?
Despite everything, both universities are excited to see the outcome – especially the home team. Maybe after this weekend, the notoriety of Notre Dame's football program will diminish. However, it will be a while before the time comes when the Fighting Irish is taken down from the high pedestal they are displayed upon. Until then, all a Georgia fan can do is root for their Dawgs and be excited for an overly-hyped, exceptional matchup between two of the finest teams in college football.
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