I don't see that happening either, and that is ok with me. Head to head should be the difference.
I don't think that ND will make the playoffs with one loss. It may also possibly lose one or two more games. I hope not, but it is possible.
I am just enjoying the fact that ND is currently 7-1 and ranked #5 in the country.
ND under Brian Kelly is 52-21, with the Irish going 36-11 since the beginning of the 2012 season.
I recall these days under Charlie Weis:
2007---3-9
2008---7-6
2009---6-6
So, as far as I am concerned, ND is playing with house money the rest of this year. If it makes the playoffs, great.
If not, it may end up 10-2 and playing in a big New Year's Day bowl. Either way, this season is great for ND recruiting and a very successful season.
As a fan, I am just enjoying the ride and not worrying about all of these various playoff scenarios.