Notre Dame quarterback Sam Hartman didn't downplay the big game narrative, but he's also aware of what he and the Irish need to do this week to get a win against No. 6 Ohio State.
Ohio State is loaded with skill talent and has the best defense Notre Dame will face all season. They also have a new quarterback and questions on the offensive line that will get answered against the Irish
The Fighting Irish went 3-12 against AP top-10 opponents over the last decade with a 14.1-point average margin of defeat. A victory over the No. 6 Buckeyes on Saturday could shift program perception, boost recruiting and catapult Notre Dame to the forefront of the playoff discussions.