I think many are saying, ND could fill out its schedule. But it would not be an ideal schedule, and would not be as easy as it was in years past when everyone played less conference games.They always play navy. They could move that back. Pick up an army and then buy a win against a MAC team or so and you have the late part of their schedule filled. They can fill the first 5-6 weeks with p2 playing them non con.
I have no doubt that ND would be able to pull something off. But it would be a lot more difficult, and it would be far from Ideal situation for them. And some years would be very difficult and they may have a hard time scheduling enough P4 level teams.
Keep in mind NDs is already playing Army this year, possibly in future years, so that may not be an add. ND is playing 4 G5 level teams this year, with only 8 P4 level games, so their scheduling is already suspect. I dont think there are too many....if any, P4 teams that dont play at least 9 P4 games, if not 10.
Is that because they want the easier schedule, or because they have trouble scheduling enough P4 teams?
If ND continues to fill up their schedule with lower level teams over the next many years, especially if the ACC implodes, will they continue to have the weight behind them to insert their influence in the playoff etc.