Snubbed by the College Football Playoff, Notre Dame snubbed its nose at a second-tier bowl game.

The ninth-ranked Fighting Irish responded to getting dropped in the CFP rankings for the second consecutive week by turning down an invitation to play in the Pop-Tarts Bowl in Orlando, Florida.

“As a team, we’ve decided to withdraw our name from consideration for a bowl game following the 2025 season,” Notre Dame wrote in a statement posted to its official X account. “We appreciate all the support from our families and fans, and we’re hoping to bring the 12th national title to South Bend in 2026.”

Although it might be the exact reaction that many Notre Dame fans wanted, it's far from ideal for the long-term viability of non-playoff bowl games.

The decision also denies Notre Dame's senio

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