**Notre Dame vs. Navy: Unexpected College Football Playoff Eliminator Takes Center Stage**

The historic rivalry between Notre Dame and Navy has taken on new significance this season, bringing unexpected stakes in the first year of the 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) era. Traditionally, Notre Dame has dominated this matchup, winning 82 out of 96 meetings since 1927 and comfortably securing victories by an average margin of 23.5 points in their last six encounters. However, this season's clash in Week 9 promises to be different.

Notre Dame, ranked No. 12, faces a surprising challenge from No. 24 Navy. Both teams are grappling for a place in the CFP, and the Midshipmen, along with Army, have maintained an undefeated record so far. Notre Dame, with a 6-1 record, aims to recover from an early-season loss to Northern Illinois. The game, taking place at MetLife Stadium, marks their first meeting at this neutral ground since 2010.

Navy's offense, led by quarterback Blake Horvath, who has achieved 10 passing and 10 rushing touchdowns, and running back Eli Heidenreich, the team's leading pass catcher, is expected to be a key factor. Fullback Alex Tecza, averaging 6.2 yards per carry, adds further strength to their attack. Notably, Navy excels in turnover margin, ranking second nationally at +12, a critical element that could offset Notre Dame’s size advantage.

For Notre Dame, quarterback Riley Leonard has emerged as a key player, showing prowess as a dual-threat asset since transferring from Duke. Despite their earlier setback against Northern Illinois, the Fighting Irish have stabilized their performance. Their victory over Texas A&M, who currently lead the SEC, stands as a testament to their potential.

In another intriguing SEC matchup, No. 8 LSU and No. 14 Texas A&M battle for supremacy, with both teams currently unbeaten in conference play. The game holds significant rivalry implications, given the schools' fierce recruiting competition and historical ties.

Meanwhile, in the ACC, the once-celebrated Florida State-Miami rivalry has lost its luster. As Miami vies to maintain an undefeated record, they face a series of challenges against Duke, Georgia Tech, and Syracuse.

Illinois, under the guidance of Bret Bielema, aims to upset No. 1 Oregon. Drawing parallels to their 2007 triumph over then-No. 1 Ohio State, Illinois could significantly impact the Big Ten race with a victory in Eugene.

Elsewhere, Pittsburgh’s quarterback Eli Holstein has become one of the season's standout players, although the team now faces uncertainty regarding his future transfer prospects.

The approaching CFP Selection Sunday on December 8 is anticipated to bring intense debates over team qualifications. With scenarios involving teams from both the Power Four conferences and the Group of Five, the selection process promises to be complex.

The football coaching landscape also sees significant changes, with notable firings at East Carolina, Southern Miss, Oklahoma, and Utah reflecting the high stakes and rapid turnover within the sport.

As the season progresses, the anticipation builds for the release of the first CFP rankings and the unfolding drama within college football’s new 12-team playoff structure.