Notre Dame players face flu outbreak ahead of Orange Bowl against Penn State

Notre Dame is dealing with a flu outbreak among players as they prepare for the College Football Playoff semifinal against Penn State in the Orange Bowl. Reports indicate that mostly backups and special teams players are affected. The Fighting Irish, who finished the regular season with an 11-1 record, reached the semifinals after notable wins against Indiana and Georgia. They are now facing a strong Penn State team that has scored over 30 points in its playoff games. The flu situation adds uncertainty for Notre Dame as they aim for their first national championship game appearance since 2013. Fans are hoping the team can compete at full strength against the Nittany Lions.