Jeremiyah Love: A Heisman Finalist Amid Notre Dame's Controversial Season

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish concluded their 2025 college football season with a 10-2 record, highlighted by a ten-game winning streak. However, the team faced significant disappointment when they were left out of the College Football Playoff (CFP), ultimately opting not to participate in any bowl games. Running back Jeremiyah Love, who had a standout season with 1,372 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, expressed that the team's exclusion was a collective decision. He noted, “We controlled our own destiny, and at the end of the day, we left it up to the committee to decide whether we were going to be in the playoffs or not.” The Irish's early-season struggles, including an 0-2 start, contributed to their playoff omission, leading to criticism of the selection process.

South Bend TribuneNew York TimesNewsweekJeremiyah Love vs Derrick Henry Statistical Comparison: How Do Heisman Finalists’ Best Seasons Stack Up?

Despite the team's playoff snub, Jeremiyah Love's individual accomplishments have garnered significant attention. He was named a finalist for the prestigious Heisman Trophy, alongside quarterbacks Fernando Mendoza, Diego Pavia, and Julian Sayin. Love's performance this season included not only his rushing statistics but also 27 receptions for 280 yards, showcasing his versatility. He made history as the first Notre Dame running back to win the Doak Walker Award, recognizing him as the top running back in college football. His achievements have positioned him as a projected first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

NewsweekThe St. Louis AmericanJeremiyah Love vs Derrick Henry Statistical Comparison: How Do Heisman Finalists’ Best Seasons Stack Up?Associated Press

As Love prepares for the Heisman Ceremony, speculation surrounds his future in college football. While many expect him to declare for the NFL Draft, Love has not definitively stated his intentions. He mentioned, “I don’t know when it will be over, this year or next year,” leaving the door open for a potential return to Notre Dame. Analysts suggest that while turning pro seems logical, the financial incentives of staying in college, particularly in the current NIL landscape, could influence his decision.

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Critics have pointed out the disparity in Love's statistics compared to other Heisman finalists, particularly in light of his lower rushing yard total compared to standout performances from other players like Ashton Jeanty. Some argue that Love's selection as a finalist may overshadow deserving candidates, such as linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, who had a remarkable season but was not nominated. This has sparked debate within the college football community regarding the criteria for Heisman candidacy.

Heavy

Jeremiyah Love has publicly accepted the outcome of the CFP selection, stating, “It was a sad feeling... but we realized that we were only in that position because we put ourselves in that position.” Notre Dame's athletic director, Pete Bevacqua, has also criticized the selection process, emphasizing the need for a more transparent evaluation of teams.

New York Times

As the Heisman Trophy ceremony approaches, Love's future remains uncertain. He is projected to be a top-10 pick in the NFL Draft, but his potential decision to return to Notre Dame could reshape the landscape for both the Fighting Irish and his professional prospects. The outcome of the Heisman ceremony will also play a significant role in his immediate future, as he weighs the benefits of further college experience against the opportunity to enter the professional ranks.

Sports Illustrated