This is going to be more of a let down spot for Notre Dame emotionally after their big Week 1 win. They put everything out in that game and in this one, may overlook their opponent somewhat as far as covering the spread, as this is also the first time they have met. They will definitely win but there isn’t a desire to blow this team out as they conserve their energy for bigger foes. Notre Dame is 8-4 straight up and 5-6-1 against the spread in home games in the last two seasons. They are also 3-1 straight up but 1-3 against the spread against non Power 4 teams. Notre Dame has a mixed covering record against the MAC as well, going 2-3-1 against the spread since 2010. NIU has covered their last five straight road openers.

Best bet: take the points with NIU.