(Photo: Chad Ryan)
It’s now Week Four and Notre Dame looks to get their first win of the season as they host the Purdue Boilermakers in South Bend. Staff predictions so far in 2025, to be blunt have been bad, really bad. FIP founder Phil Houk is not happy about that. Check out his merciless decree as he attempts to get the Fighting Irish Preview team back on track.
Here’s how the Fighting Irish Preview staff see things playing out:
Phillip Houk – Senior Editor/Founder
The Fighting Irish staff has failed miserably in its predictions this season. At 0–12, our record is somehow worse than Notre Dame’s. Therefore, as senior editor and founder, I am issuing a decree: no more Guinness for the staff (me included) until this record improves. So, here is my own attempt to earn our way back to a pint or two.
Purdue looks to be far more competitive than last year’s squad the Irish clubbed 66–7. The problem? They are still a team in transition and through three games they’ve forced zero turnovers, while quarterback Ryan Browne has already thrown four interceptions. That feels like a window for the Irish defense. Look for Notre Dame to snag a takeaway or two — and for the offense to keep improving as CJ Carr and company find their rhythm.
Prediction: Notre Dame 38, Purdue 14
Caleb Conrad – Staff Intern
After losing two straight games and Notre Dame’s season hanging by a thread, look for the Irish to be aggressive and ready to pounce on this Purdue team. The Notre Dame offense played well in its first two games and look for it to have another solid game against a struggling Purdue defense. Notre Dame’s biggest question mark right now is defense. With that being said, look for the Notre Dame defense to have a much better game with potential for multiple interceptions and several big plays. This will be Notre Dame’s game to lose as they look to get their first win of the season.
Prediction: Notre Dame 52, Purdue 7
Jesse Craig – Webmaster
Our fearless leader, Phil, has given the staff and himself brutal criticism over our early predictions. I haven’t seen or felt such a hot seat since… well, since yesterday looking at what Irish fans were saying about Chris Ash.
So I will be the sacrificial lamb this week. Who knows what outside noise has seeped into the locker room, affecting confidence? Purdue is not below taking advantage of a team having an identity crisis. And they just might. I’m taking Purdue 31 – Notre Dame 28.
Just kidding. While this Purdue team is better than the last couple, we know the drill here. The Irish cover and get back on track.
Prediction: Notre Dame 47, Purdue 20
Chad Ryan – Photo Journalist / Multimedia Editor
You’d have to be a fool to pick Purdue over Notre Dame, right? RIGHT?! There’s no way the Boilermakers pull this off … is there?
But who could’ve predicted the Fighting Irish defense would have so little fight? Could it be scheme flaws under new DC Chris Ash, the lack of a vocal leader, or a combination of the two? It’s hard to tell at this point. Surely, Marcus Freeman and Co. are driving home that 0-3 can’t happen — won’t happen. I don’t believe it will either. The Irish defense saves some face in this one.
Prediction: Notre Dame 35, Purdue 14
Connor Fitzharris – Staff Writer
While Purdue is much improved since last year, the Boilermakers are still overmatched. Despite finishing 0-2, there’s a reason why the Irish are still ranked 14 in the FPI. Notre Dame’s talent and skill is a grade above the Boilermakers. Now, it’s up to the Irish coaching staff to get them ready to come away with its first victory of the season.
Prediction: Notre Dame 38, Purdue 13
Adam Schenkel – Producer / Audio Editor
I’m looking for Notre Dame to bounce back in a big way after last week’s defensive letdown. The matchup with Purdue feels like the perfect chance for the Irish to reestablish their identity. The defense should tighten up, the offense continues to roll, and the schedule finally provides some relief. Notre Dame controls this one from start to finish.
Prediction: Notre Dame 42, Purdue 18
AJ Houk – Photo Journalist / Director of Brand Strategy
Notre Dame has taken two on the chin to start the season — a spot nobody expected them to be in. Now it’s about identity. Show who you are, what you stand for, and why this season isn’t lost. The Irish need to pick themselves up off the mat, respond, and go win a football game.
Prediction: Notre Dame 38, Purdue 10