Irish Breakdown

Notre Dame's Defense Will Be Ready For USC

Notre Dame’s defense has risen to the occasion all season. Can it shut down USC’s high-powered offense in this rivalry clash?

John Kennedy

Nov 23, 2024; New York, New York, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jack Kiser (24) celebrates with teammates after a defensive stop during the second half against the Army Black Knights at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Nov 23, 2024; New York, New York, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jack Kiser (24) celebrates with teammates after a defensive stop during the second half against the Army Black Knights at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images / Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
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Notre Dame's defense is rock solid

Notre Dame's defense has been spectacular this year. Al Golden's unit currently sits second nationally in terms of PPG allowed with that number being a slim 11.6. Notre Dame also holds the top spot for turnovers forced and pass efficiency this season.

Even with multiple key contributors missing due to injury for much of the year, this unit never skipped a beat. It never wavered. It continued to play winning football for the entire season. Even in the game Notre Dame lost, the Irish offense should've been capable of scoring more than the 16 points the Irish defense allowed on their worst day.

Notre Dame's defense chooses violence and is full of confidence

For as impressive as the Notre Dame defense's statistics are, I'm equally impressed with its vibe. This group carries itself with supreme confidence, not cockiness, that shows. Everything this unit does is with full confidence and conviction.

Notre Dame defenders are hard hitters who never hesitate. They have leadership on all three levels of the defense that ensure standards of play are met at all times. I see no circumstance in which this defense isn't ready to perform against USC. This is their moment to shine, they know it, and I expect them to take advantage at the Trojan's expense.

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John Kennedy
JOHN KENNEDY

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