NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Prediction 
Odds 
Last Recap 
Game Picks 
Top Handicapper 
Notre Dame vs Purdue Picks and Predictions — September 20, 2025
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish return to South Bend in desperation mode, hosting the Purdue Boilermakers on Saturday afternoon. The Fighting Irish (0-2) have lost two straight heartbreakers, falling to Miami and Texas A&M by a combined four points. Purdue (2-1) enters under new head coach Barry Odom, already surpassing last year’s win total after victories over Ball State and Southern Illinois before losing to USC.
Expert Confidence. Public Fade.
See the sharp side
Opening odds:
- Spread: Notre Dame −7.5
- Total (Over/Under): 54.5 points
- Moneyline: Notre Dame favored
Want sharp NCAAF betting previews every week? Check our NCAAF Picks Hub →
Notre Dame Can Win If…
- QB CJ Carr plays mistake-free football. The freshman has 514 passing yards with 3 TDs but must limit turnovers.
- They regain control defensively. After giving up 40 points last week, Marcus Freeman hinted at becoming more involved with first-year DC Chris Ash.
- The rushing game establishes balance. Jeremiyah Love has 127 yards and must keep Purdue’s defense honest.
“You can make yourself feel better and say, ‘Well, that’s his fault.’ Or you can say, ‘Did we do it enough until we couldn’t get it wrong?’” Freeman said about accountability.
Purdue Can Win If…
- Ryan Browne avoids costly turnovers. He’s thrown for 786 yards and 5 TDs but also has 4 interceptions through three games.
- Devin Mockobee keeps the chains moving. His 230 rushing yards and 3 scores provide Purdue balance in the red zone.
- The defense finds ways to pressure Carr. Notre Dame has been shaky in execution, and disruptive plays could swing momentum.
“We’re judged, and I’m judged, on results and not effort. That’s the bottom line,” Odom said after the USC loss.
Key NCAAF Betting Trends
| Category | Notre Dame Fighting Irish | Purdue Boilermakers |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 0-2 (losses by 4 total pts) | 2-1 (loss to USC) |
| QB Production | CJ Carr: 514 yds, 3 TD, 2 INT | Browne: 786 yds, 5 TD, 4 INT |
| Rushing Leaders | Love: 127 yds, 1 TD | Mockobee: 230 yds, 3 TD |
| Defensive Concerns | Allowed 41 pts vs Texas A&M | Allowed 42 vs USC |
| Coaching Angle | Freeman under scrutiny | Odom in 1st year, 2 wins |
The Lean
Pick: Notre Dame −7.5
Projected Final Score: Notre Dame 31, Purdue 21
Total Lean: Under 54.5
Reasoning: Notre Dame has been competitive despite its 0-2 start and should clean up execution at home. Purdue has shown progress under Odom but remains turnover-prone and vulnerable defensively. Expect Notre Dame’s defense to tighten up and Carr to make enough plays to cover the spread.
Get weekly insights like this in our NCAAF Betting Predictions hub.
Best Bet Box
| Best Bet Category | Selection |
|---|---|
| Best Bet | Notre Dame −7.5 |
| Confidence Rating | ★★★★☆ |
| Projected Final Score | Notre Dame 31, Purdue 21 |
| Total Lean | Under 54.5 |
