With Notre Dame defeating the Texas A&M Aggies last weekend 23-13, optimism around the football program is at an all time high. For a team coming off of that big of a victory, in that electric of an environment, it’s easy for a team to come back and lack focus. That’s the biggest test this weekend against the Northern Illinois Huskies, a game that is scheduled for a 3:30 PM ET kickoff at Notre Dame Stadium. Northern Illinois is a pretty talented football team but the Irish have the advantage, and everyone knows it, even the Notre Dame players.
The challenge is for Notre Dame to rid themselves of that fact, and stick to the fundamentals when approaching a team like this. Head coach Marcus Freeman makes sure that the team is focused, and shows similar urgency to what we saw last weekend. That’s easier said than done but we did see the Irish not play down to opponents in 2023, and that must continue.
On offense, this is an opportunity for quarterback Riley Leonard to really get the passing attack going. Notre Dame won their game against the Aggies on the ground, showcasing the dynamic ability that the team has in the backfield. The passing game was much less productive, throwing for under 160 yards on the day. Look for Mike Denbrock, Leonard, and this passing attack to open things up on Saturday.
We saw glimpses of what wide receiver Beaux Collins can do, and that should continue. It’ll be important to get Jaden Greathouse and Kris Mitchell both going. Expect the latter to make a couple big plays in this contest. More than anything, Notre Dame is going to have to make some big plays through the air this season. This game can be thought of as almost a tune up game. If Leonard and the wide receivers can get in sync, this offense has a chance to be lethal.
On defense, Notre Dame will have to be extra focused. While the Northern Illinois defense isn’t the most inspiring unit, their offense has a ton of talent. That includes star running back Antario Brown, as well as pass catchers Trayvon Rudolph and Grayson Barnes. Quarterback Ethan Hampton is also coming off of a strong day, throwing for five touchdowns against Western Illinois.
With so much offensive firepower, the Irish would do well to tackle in space. You have the better athletes, and the more physically impressive squad. Don’t allow this team to create explosive plays. Make them earn every yard.
I expect the pass rush to have a big day against Northern Illinois. Their offensive line is a veteran group with some size, but there’s no question that Notre Dame has the clear advantage. It feels like a game for sophomore Boubacar Traore to announce his presence. RJ Oben and Jordan Botelho should also have their impact felt. Sprinkle in a little Bryce Young, and this defensive end group could really start to gain their footing.
Final Prediction: Notre Dame 44, Northern Illinois 17
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