Notre Dame vs Michigan State Prediction & Betting Tips for Week 3 on 9/19/2026

In Week 3 of the 2026 College Football Regular Season, the Michigan State Spartans are set to take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. This game will be held at the historic Notre Dame Stadium in Notre Dame, Indiana, with a scheduled kickoff at 7:30 PM. Fans can catch the action live on NBC.

The Spartans, representing the Big Ten Conference, enter this game with a 2-0 record, having secured wins against Eastern Michigan and Toledo. Despite their strong start, they face their first road test of the season against a high-caliber opponent. Michigan State's performance thus far has showcased a balanced offensive attack, with solid contributions in both rushing and passing yards.

Meanwhile, the Fighting Irish hold a perfect 2-0 record and are ranked #3 in both the AP and Coaches Polls. As an independent team, Notre Dame has already demonstrated their offensive might with dominant victories over Rice and Wisconsin. Playing on their home field, they aim to continue their early-season success in front of their passionate fanbase.

Notre Dame vs Michigan State At a Glance

• Game Date and Time: Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 7:30 PM
• Venue: Notre Dame Stadium in Notre Dame, IN
• Broadcast: NBC
• Notre Dame Record: 2-0 overall, 1-0 at home
• Michigan State Record: 2-0 overall, yet to play on the road
• Game Odds: Notre Dame favored by 29.5 points

Notre Dame Fighting Irish: A Dominant Start to the Season

Offensive Firepower

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish offense has been impressive this season, scoring 93 points over their first two games. This ranks them 18th in the nation, showing they can put up points quickly and efficiently. Quarterback CJ Carr has been at the helm, leading an offense that has amassed 599 passing yards, ranking 33rd.

Despite their strong passing game, the rushing attack hasn't quite matched up, with the team currently ranked 102nd in rushing yards. However, with running backs like Jeremiyah Love returning after a 1372-yard season in 2025, there is potential for growth in this area.

Defensive Dominance

Defensively, the Fighting Irish have allowed just 13 points so far, placing them 5th nationally. Their defensive unit has shown remarkable ability to pressure the quarterback, registering three sacks in the early part of the season.

Additionally, Notre Dame's defense has excelled in forcing turnovers, with one interception and five fumbles recovered. These numbers highlight their opportunistic nature and ability to capitalize on opponents' mistakes.

Recent Performance

Notre Dame has started the 2026 season with back-to-back victories, including a dominant 52-0 win over the Rice Owls. Their performance at Notre Dame Stadium showcased their offensive and defensive capabilities, with the team achieving 24 first downs compared to Rice's seven.

In their previous game, the Fighting Irish secured a 41-13 victory over Wisconsin, demonstrating their ability to perform well both at home and on the road. Their balanced offensive attack was evident as they racked up 239 passing yards and 111 rushing yards.

Injury Concerns

The Fighting Irish will have to navigate some injury challenges, with key players like Jason Onye and Charles Jagusah sidelined. Onye's foot injury and Jagusah's arm injury mean they won't be available for the upcoming games.

There are also several players listed as questionable, including safety Brauntae Johnson and offensive lineman Peter Jones. Their potential absence could impact Notre Dame's depth in crucial positions.

Notre Dame Top Betting Trends

• SU - After Win: Last 21 Games (2024–2026) → 20-1 (95.2%)
• SU - All Games: Last 24 Games (2024–2026) → 22-2 (91.7%)
• SU - As Favorite: Last 24 Games (2024–2026) → 22-2 (91.7%)
• SU - Home Games: Last 25 Games (2022–2026) → 22-3 (88.0%)
• SU - Totals ≥ 50: Last 10 Games (2025–2026) → 10-0 (100.0%)
• ATS - After Win: Last 20 Games (2024–2026) → 15-5 (75.0%)

Michigan State Spartans: A Road Test Awaits in Notre Dame

Quarterback Overview

The Michigan State Spartans will rely heavily on the arm of Alessio Milivojevic, who comes into this game with significant experience. Last season, Milivojevic completed 173 passing attempts across nine games, amassing 1,267 yards. His ability to manage the game effectively will be critical as the Spartans aim to maintain their undefeated record.

Running Game Dynamics

Elijah Tau-Tolliver will be an essential component of Michigan State's ground attack. Last season, he rushed for 428 yards and contributed two touchdowns, highlighting his capacity to find the end zone. Brandon Tullis complements him in the backfield, adding 301 yards and four touchdowns, showcasing the depth in the Spartans' rushing game.

Receiving Corps Insights

Omari Kelly leads the receiving corps with 626 yards and two touchdowns last season, proving himself as a reliable target for Milivojevic. Chrishon McCray also adds to the receiving strength, having recorded 330 yards and three touchdowns. These receivers provide Michigan State with multiple options to exploit defensive weaknesses.

Tight End Contributions

Jack Velling offers a strong presence at tight end, contributing 359 receiving yards and three touchdowns last season. His role as a versatile playmaker makes him a valuable asset in both blocking and receiving roles. Look for Velling to be a key factor in the Spartans' offensive schemes.

Kicking Game Analysis

Blake Sislo will need to capitalize on scoring opportunities, having made all six extra point attempts last season. While field goals may not have been his forte, his reliability in extra points is crucial in close games. A solid performance from Sislo could tip the balance in favor of the Spartans.

Defensive Strengths

Michigan State's defense is formidable, with six sacks recorded this season, ranking seventh nationally. Their ability to pressure the quarterback will be crucial against Notre Dame's offensive line. The defense also ranks second in interceptions, demonstrating their knack for forcing turnovers.

Injury Report

The Spartans face potential challenges with key players listed as questionable, including Jordan Hall with an arm injury. Leonard Ah You and Carlos Hazelwood are also uncertain to play, both dealing with undisclosed injuries. These injuries could impact the defensive front's performance against Notre Dame.

Team Betting Trends

• SU - As Favorite: 20-4 (83.3%) in the last 24 games.
• ATS - Away Games: 5-0 (100.0%) in the last 5 games.
• SU - All Games: 3-0 (100.0%) in the last 3 games.
• O/U - After Win: 6-1 (85.7%) in the last 7 games.
• O/U - Away Games: 5-2 (71.4%) in the last 7 games.

Notre Dame vs Michigan State Prediction: 'Over 52.5'

Notre Dame has demonstrated a potent offense, scoring 93 points over their first two games this season. Their ability to put up high numbers makes it plausible they could lead the charge to exceed the total set at 52.5 points. Their recent 52-0 win over Rice is a testament to their scoring capacity.

Michigan State, while strong defensively, has also shown they can score, having put up 65 points in two games. They will need to score to keep pace with Notre Dame, and even a modest output on their part could help push the total over 52.5. Their last game against Eastern Michigan ended with a 35-7 victory, indicating they can contribute to a higher-scoring game.

Considering both teams have shown offensive efficiency early in the season, the likelihood of a high-scoring game is significant. Moreover, Notre Dame's trend of hitting the over in games with totals set at or above 50 points makes the over 52.5 an attractive pick. The home-field advantage for Notre Dame could further ignite their offensive performance.

With Notre Dame's offensive firepower and Michigan State's ability to score, the game is projected to go over 52.5. A final score prediction of 45-17 in favor of Notre Dame supports the over pick.

• Notre Dame vs Michigan State Prediction: Over 52.5
• Notre Dame vs Michigan State Score: Notre Dame 45 - Michigan State 17

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