Notre Dame defensive keys to victory against the explosive Navy Midshipmen offensive attack
The Notre Dame defense is one of the best overall units in college football. They will be facing off against a prolific Navy Midshipmen offense this week, that has been dominant on the ground, and unusually proficient in the passing game as well. It is a much more balanced attack than usual. In order for […]
The Notre Dame defense is one of the best overall units in college football. They will be facing off against a prolific Navy Midshipmen offense this week, that has been dominant on the ground, and unusually proficient in the passing game as well. It is a much more balanced attack than usual.
In order for the Irish defense to slow down the Navy offense that is averaging 44.8 points per game so far, there are a few big keys to victory in this contest. If they accomplish them, they have a chance to stifle a really good group and make a huge statement on Saturday.
Defensive line wrecks the game
When you are going against a triple option offense, or any variation of it, forcing quicker decisions is the key to killing the rhythm. The Notre Dame defensive line can really set the tone early in this football game, being physical and making plays behind the line of scrimmage. The offensive line is a relentless group but there is no reason that Howard Cross and Rylie Mills shouldn’t have a field day, along with Gabriel Rubio and others. With how that interior defensive line is playing, it feels setup for them to put together a big performance.
Play downhill on the second level
The emergence of Drayk Bowen in the middle of the defense has been tremendous to watch the last couple of weeks. When you add in Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa and Jaiden Ausberry, on top of the steady play of Jack Kiser, you have a very fast and aggressive second level of the Irish defense. Speed has a way of forcing teams into some bad mistakes. This linebacker group needs to be fast, relentless and make some plays on Saturday.
Discipline on the back end
With Benjamin Morrison out for the rest of the season, the cornerback position is a really inexperienced one. Against an option-based offense, they will be testing a lot in the run game, as well as staying disciplined against the pass. Leonard Moore and Christian Gray will need to stay true to their assignment, as will safety Adon Shuler. Don’t be shocked if we also see Jordan Clark outside at cornerback at times during this game with his impact in the running game. Not letting anything behind you is the top priority for this Irish secondary.
