Notre Dame Tight Ends Shine in Key Role During Victory Over USC

Notre Dame tight ends played a pivotal role in the win against USC, showcasing their impact in the Irish's offensive success.

Nov 30, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish tight end Mitchell Evans (88) scores a touchdown against the Southern California Trojans during the second half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Redemption is sweet after painful recoveries

Notre Dame tight ends Mitchell Evans and Eli Raridon have been through a lot. Both entered this season coming off of major leg surgery rehabilitations that would test anyone's patience.

After spending much of the early portion of the season trying to get back to full speed and grow with a new Irish offense, this duo may be hitting their stride at the perfect time.

Against USC, Both Evans and Raridon caught key TD passes from Riley Leonard. On the day, Evans had five catches for a total of 59 yards while Raridon collected two balls for 16 yards.

In such a ciritical game for Notre Dame, I thought it was great that these two players specifically were able to get into the end zone.

This kind of resilient redemption mirrors that of the program overall after week two and further exemplifies just how far Marcus Freeman's 2024 group has come.

Eli Raridon vs Mason Cobb and Mitchell Evans vs Bryson Shaw are mismatches that Mike Denbrock has exploited for two touchdowns. ND's tight ends with two huge touchdown receptions adding to a dominant running game

— Jamie Uyeyama (@jamieuyeyama) November 30, 2024

Can the recent tight end success carry over into the CFP?

Notre Dame loves its run game behind Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price entering the playoff, and who wouldn't? This is the Irish's strength offensively. It's weakness?

The passing game. It just isn't going to look like anyone wants it to in 2024 for a variety of reasons. Notre Dame must lean on what it is best at to grind out CFP wins.

If the Notre Dame tight ends can become reliable receiving threats, particularly in tricky third-down situations and in the red zone, it'd provide a major boost to the passing game that will force defenses to adapt. This would be a wonderful feature to be able to rely on from here on out.

These two players have battled back so hard to contribute to this team, it's great to see them find success. They have earned it.

For more Irish news & notes follow John on Twitter @alwaysirishINC, Always Irish on Youtube and or your preferred audio podcast provider.

Notre Dame vs USC: The Final Countdown Begins

A Notre Dame Fan’s Worst Nightmare: What if the Schedule Really Isn't THAT Great?

Notre Dame Fans Are Thankful and Hopeful Ahead of USC Showdown

Notre Dame's Defense Will Be Ready For USC