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USATSI

Notre Dame Fighting returns to South Bend, still riding high off their Week 1 win in College Station over Texas A&M. The Fighting Irish are hoping to keep their momentum going in their home opener against Northern Illinois on Saturday.

The Irish defense looked particularly impressive in last week's 23-13 win over the Aggies. It was a statement victory for a team looking to return to the College Football Playoff for the first time since 2020. On offense, Notre Dame's success was spearheaded by its rushing attack -- especially running back Jeremiyah Love, who ran for 91 yards and a touchdown.

Duke transfer quarterback Riley Leonard threw for 158 yards and rushed for 63 more yards in his debut for the Golden Domers.

NIU opened its season by blasting Western Illinois, 54-15. Quarterback Ethan Hampton put together a spectacular performance Week 1. He threw for 328 yards and five touchdowns while completing 90% of his passes. Receiver Trayvon Rudolph picked up 104 receiving yards and a touchdown. 

The Huskies were also unstoppable the ground and finished the game with 312 rushing yards -- part of a 706-yard total. They'll put that momentum up against a Notre Dame defense many expect to be one of the best in the country this year.

Where to watch Notre Dame vs. Northern Illinois

  • When: Saturday, Sept. 7 at 3:30 p.m. ET
  • Where: Notre Dame Stadium -- South Bend, Indiana
  • TV: NBC
  • Online streaming: fuboTV (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.)

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Notre Dame vs. Northern Illinois spread, odds

The Fighting Irish are 28-point favorites against the Huskies, according to the SportsLine consensus. That line has moved in favor of Notre Dame since opening at 25.5 points.