Notre Dame has ended their regular season on a four game losing streak, dropping the Irish (7-5) from College Football Playoff contention to a medicore bowl game. However, they could still be in one of the marquee matchups of the entire bowl season - so who are their likely opponents?
LSU
This would be a great matchup between two big-name programs that are trying to rebuild for next season. The Irish would likely face the Tigers if they go to the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl, which is one of the best bowl games they're a candidate for. A warm climate and marquee opponent would attract a lot of fans to the game - along with huge TV interest - so you'd have to believe this is the matchup the Gator Bowl is targeting. Missouri and Georgia could also be put in the bowl from the SEC.
Penn State
The Pinstripe Bowl has the opportunity to host a game between these two traditioinal northern powerhouses, and it's one they'll definitely pursue. The Irish did play in the game last year, but it might be hard for them to pass on playing in front of a huge following in New York against the Nittany Lions.
Oklahoma
This is the more intriguing matchup of the bunch. Oklahoma is behind Baylor, TCU, and Kansas State in the Big 12 standings, which has put them into contention for the Russell Athletic Bowl. While it's not as prestigious as other bowl games, the chance for the Irish and Sooners to face off in Florida holds a huge appeal to both schools and to television networks. Both sides will try to get a bid to a better bowl than this, but if they miss out, this would be an excellent consolation prize.
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