The Notre Dame defense has been the backbone of the program for many years. Despite a change at DC and after losing players like Howard Cross, Rylie Mills, and Xavier Watts, the defense must maintain its high level of play.

Bain, who is a very dense defensive end at 6-3 and 275 pounds, was banged up throughout the majority of the 2024 season. When he has been healthy, Bain has been a dominant member of the Miami front. In 22 games over the last two seasons, he has recorded 67 total tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, and three forced fumbles.

The road to a national championship has often included a regular-season win in this series for Notre Dame football and the Miami Hurricanes.