Few matchups in college football history have the same intensity as Notre Dame vs. Miami.

From the notorious rivalry of the late 1980s to several encounters that influenced national championship outcomes, this rivalry has consistently held significant importance. This sets up for some dynamic #6 Notre Dame vs. #10 Miami predictions!

Now, in 2025, it makes a comeback in prime time with both teams ranked in the top 10 and vying for playoff spots. The Irish come in ranked No. 6 following last season’s College Football Playoff journey, while Miami is positioned at No. 10, having strengthened their roster through the transfer portal and eager to reclaim their place in the national limelight.

 

 

 

#6 Notre Dame vs. #10 Miami Predictions for College Football Week 1, Sunday, 8/31

Notre Dame is favored by 2.5 points in a matchup where defense, new offensive elements, and the effects of Week 1 rust are expected to take center stage. If the spread were set at Notre Dame -3, Miami would have value catching the field goal. However, at 2.5, there’s no buffer — and no distinct advantage. 

Both teams possess strong defensive talent, making it hard to confidently lay or take points with such a tight line. Instead, the total is what really stands out. This matchup is shaping up to be more of a slugfest than a shootout, making the Under 49.5 the most appealing option available for #6 Notre Dame vs. #10 Miami picks.

 

 

 

#6 Notre Dame vs. #10 Miami Best Bet: Under 49.5 (-110 at Rebet)

Of course, at the center of any #6 Notre Dame vs. #10 Miami predictions, you have to start by discussing the QB situation. Notre Dame is handing the offense over to true freshman quarterback CJ Carr, a highly-regarded recruit who will be making his first career start on the road against a Top 10 team. 

The Irish won’t expect him to carry the team alone — they’ll rely on Jeremiyah Love, one of the most dynamic running backs in the nation, along with an offensive line that is projected to be among the best in college football. Look for Carr to focus on the short and intermediate passing game, aiming to minimize errors.

On the other hand, Miami is moving ahead with Carson Beck, the former Georgia quarterback who joined via the portal. Beck brings more experience than Carr, but the Hurricanes need to replace almost all of last year’s leading receiving production. 

With new timing and chemistry to develop, it’s doubtful Miami will hit the ground running in Week 1. Their strength lies in the trenches, where one of the top offensive lines in the country should provide Beck with time and create openings for Damien Martinez on the ground.

Both teams aim to play ball-control football, shorten possessions, and rely on their defenses — a classic Under scenario. Last year, Notre Dame allowed only 15.5 points per game, placing them 4th in the nation. They bring back top-tier talent across all three defensive levels, particularly safety Xavier Watts, who led the team with six interceptions. 

In response, Miami has a defense that showed inconsistency at times in 2024, yet boasts impressive speed in both the front seven and the secondary. Linebacker Francisco Mauigoa and edge rusher Tyler Baron are key players in a unit that can pressure Carr and force him into quick decisions.

Both defenses are much more established than their respective offenses, and in the early part of the season, defenses typically set the pace. Coupled with the humid conditions in Miami, which can disrupt offensive flow, this further favors the Under.

Historically, three of the last four encounters between these teams have ended Under the total. Even during the famous “Catholics vs. Convicts” era, games often leaned towards defense, especially with national championships at stake and every possession being crucial.

From a situational perspective, this matchup has a playoff-like atmosphere in Week 1. Neither coach wants to make an early-season blunder that could jeopardize their championship aspirations. Anticipate conservative strategies, a focus on field position, and numerous punts rather than risky passes.

Notre Dame’s running game is likely to create some sustained drives, while Miami may experience moments of success thanks to Beck’s veteran experience. However, neither offense seems prepared to excel in their opening game with so many new components. Let’s look towards the Under 49.5 (-110 at Rebet) for our #6 Notre Dame vs. #10 Miami picks!

 

 

 

How To Watch #6 Notre Dame vs. #10 Miami College Football Week 1

  • Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025
  • Time: 7:30 PM ET
  • TV: ABC
  • Location: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL

 

 

 

#6 Notre Dame vs. #10 Miami Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

With our official #6 Notre Dame vs. #10 Miami predictions listed above, here are the latest #6 Notre Dame vs. #10 Miami odds from Rebet:

  • Money Line (ML): Fighting Irish -135 | Hurricanes +115
  • Spread: Fighting Irish -2.5 (-115) | Hurricanes +2.5 (-115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 49.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

 

 

 

#6 Notre Dame vs. #10 Miami Injury Report & Latest News

Notre Dame Injury Report

  • None

 

Miami Injury Report

  • None

 

 

 

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