Notre Dame Defeats Penn State in CFP Semifinal

By Kyle, Contributor

​Notre Dame secured a dramatic victory over Penn State in the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal, clinching the game with a 41-yard field goal by Mitch Jeter with just seven seconds remaining. This win occurred in the Orange Bowl, propelling Notre Dame to their first national championship game since 2013. The game was marked by a tense fourth quarter where both teams exchanged the lead multiple times, ultimately ending with a score of 27-24 in favor of Notre Dame.

Notre Dame's Riley Leonard played a pivotal role, overcoming early struggles to lead the team's offensive turnaround. His performance was crucial in setting up the game-winning field goal.

A critical interception by Notre Dame's Christian Gray from Penn State's Drew Allar with 33 seconds left gave the Irish the opportunity for the winning kick.

Both teams had strong running games, with Penn State's Nicholas Singleton scoring three rushing touchdowns, but Notre Dame's defense managed to contain Penn State's offense in crucial moments.

The game was also influenced by turnovers and special teams plays, with Notre Dame's defense forcing a key interception late in the game and their special teams performing well in field position battles.

This victory not only showcases Notre Dame's resilience but also sets the stage for them to compete for their first national title since 1988 against either Ohio State or Texas in the championship game.