Notre Dame football needs to put together a dominant defensive performance against Miami (OH)
The Notre Dame defense is off to a fast start in the 2024 season. They are allowing just 12 points per game so far, which is highlighted by an elite pass defense. In general, that group looks like it could be one of the best in college football. There really isn’t a hole in it […]
The Notre Dame defense is off to a fast start in the 2024 season. They are allowing just 12 points per game so far, which is highlighted by an elite pass defense. In general, that group looks like it could be one of the best in college football. There really isn’t a hole in it from a talent perspective.
They will be facing off against a Miami (OH) RedHawk squad that has had a ton of struggles on the offensive side of the football. On paper, the Irish should dominate this matchup but as we have seen, games aren’t won and lost on paper. Here are the keys to keeping the Miami (OH) offense in a bad spot this Saturday.
Pressure Brett Gabbert
Gabbert has played a lot of football for the RedHawks, with this being his 42nd career game played. During his career, he has thrown for 8,459 yards and 61 touchdowns. Gabbert has also added another seven scores on the ground.
The younger brother of former NFL first rounder Blaine Gabbert, the Miami (OH) standout is a good player on his level but isn’t an overly talented signal caller. If you get pressure on him, Gabbert is prone to mistakes. He also isn’t a great athlete and will take some bad sacks if you get home.
Keep a weakness a weakness
The RedHawks can’t run the football. They have been averaging just 32 yards rushing per game so far, and have only averaged 1.4 yards per carry. There is no reason for the Irish defense to give up anything on the ground this week. Notre Dame clearly has the advantage at the line of scrimmage.
If the defense is able to keep a weakness a weakness, then the Miami (OH) offense shouldn’t stand much of a chance. Gabbert’s success is predicated on rhythm. If you eliminate the run game, then that threatens the efficiency of the unit to a large level.
Tackle in space
Quite simply, the RedHawks shouldn’t be able to create many, if any big plays offensively. The offense lacks playmakers, and especially ones who can create explosive plays. Their best skill position player is wide receiver Cade McDonald, who has hauled in 16 receptions for 240 yards and one touchdown. He’s been tremendous.
McDonald is sure to make some plays, but keeping them to minimal gains will be the key. With this type of Miami (OH) team, don’t allow them to create many extra effort plays, and find hidden yardage. You want to make everything methodical and difficult overall. If the RedHawks have to put together long drives, they probably aren’t going to be overly successful.
