1. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
ESPN FPI’s win-out percentage: 15.8%
Chance Notre Dame goes 12-0: Above average
Why it could happen: Not to mention a popular offseason narrative, but the expanded College Football Playoff will always benefit the Fighting Irish as long as Notre Dame stays independent and continues to recruit at a high level. Looking at the 2024 schedule specifically for Marcus Freeman’s crew, Notre Dame’s toughest game might be in the season opener at Texas A&M. The Fighting Irish host Louisville and Florida State, too. The finale at USC may determine a playoff spot if both of those teams have double-digit wins. Riley Leonard will be a Heisman finalist if Notre Dame is unblemished entering the postseason.