The Buzz: Miami travels to Blacksburg, Virginia, for the first time since 2022 to take on the rival Hokies. Virginia Tech was a preseason darling last year but ended the season with a disappointing 6-7 record. However, the Hokies nearly beat Miami at Hard Rock Stadium last year, and playing in Blacksburg is always difficult.

The Notre Dame defense has been the backbone of the program for many years. Despite a change at DC and after losing players like Howard Cross, Rylie Mills, and Xavier Watts, the defense must maintain its high level of play.

Notre Dame football led the nation with 33 takeaways and tied for fifth in turnover margin per game last season.