This prediction is quite possible for a number of reasons. First of all, a number of early preseason rankings have Notre Dame already in the top ten. So the Irish will be close to a top five ranking by the time kickoff rolls around on September 4th in Austin.
Second, the Irish have a few matchups in the first four weeks that if they win could help leapfrog themselves into the top five. In week one, the Irish will travel to Texas to take on what should be a much improved Longhorn team. If the Irish can win, and possibly win convincingly the college football world will be put on notice.