No. 1 Miami vs. No. 11 Notre Dame live updates score: Follow the mega-matchup of old rivals

In a crucial matchup of top-ranked teams, Notre Dame and Miami are set to clash in a must-win game for the Irish. Notre Dame is currently No. 4 in the AP Top 25 rankings, but their lackluster schedule has placed them outside the top 10 in the CFP committee's eyes. A 10-2 record in two consecutive years would be a significant challenge for the Fighting Irish to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff.

To overcome this hurdle, Notre Dame will need to provide quarterback CJ Carr with adequate support in the running game. Miami's defense has been formidable all season, particularly against the run, with opponents struggling to gain traction against the Hurricanes' offensive line. Freshmen Nolan James Jr. and Jonaz Walton have been Notre Dame's top rushers, contributing significantly to their ground attack.

The absence of Miami receiver Malachi Toney due to an ankle injury in practice presents an opportunity for the Fighting Irish. With Toney out, quarterback Darian Mensah will have to rely on other receivers and capitalize on Miami's run game, which has seen improvement with freshman Javian Mallory's emergence. Miami's offensive weaponry includes star receiver Cooper Barkate, who has amassed 28 catches for 372 yards and four touchdowns, along with Daylyn Upshaw and Elija Lofton, who have each tallied over nine catches.