Georgia lost to South Carolina, Michigan struggled with Illinois and Virginia lost to Miami. USC came to town with losses against BYU and Washington, so they have already lost respect as well. During the preseason, this schedule looked like it would be difficult again, but of course, Notre Dame football has to fight an uphill battle.
So with a loss and a host of undefeated teams ahead of them in the polls, Notre Dame will need some help. Their strength of schedule is falling fast and the remaining teams on it offer very little help for a playoff push.