Paul Finebaum Names Program That Could Secure CFP Spot With Week 1 Win

Week 1 of college football season is here, featuring marquee matchups, including Notre Dame Fighting Irish vs. Texas A&M Aggies.

The No. 7-ranked Fighting Irish are currently the underdogs against the No. 20-ranked Aggies. ESPN's Paul Finebaum thinks that this game could have major College Football Playoff implications. Finebaum believes that with a win, Notre Dame will make the playoffs this season for the first time since 2020.

"I don't have any questions, yes," Finebaum said. "I know it sounds crazy. We haven't even turned the page on the month yet, but I think Notre Dame would have done enough. That is a huge atmosphere for them on Saturday night."

Finebaum mentioned that while some people might not think highly of the Aggies, they should ask Nick Saban how tough it is to win in College Station. He called it a potentially "frightening" situation for the Fighting Irish. He pointed out that the Fighting Irish don't have many tough games on their schedule outside of that one, so if Notre Dame can secure a win over Texas A&M, they will be destined for a playoff berth.

Notre Dame will face Texas A&M on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. ET, airing on ABC.

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