It is great to step into the next game game prep, Virginia Cavaliers week. Last week is in the past and now it’s time focus on the next opponent. The angst of last week is necessary for this team moving forward. The reason for the team not to forget last weekend, is so they can build from it the remainder of the season. They proved that they cared about after the news of a “players only” meeting. That is the way you want this team to be. It’s not that they didn’t win, it’s the fact they know they can do better.
On Sunday’s after a game, the media gets to meet with Coach Kelly via teleconference. I had the chance to ask Coach about Cole Kmet and his performance, Coach had this response, ” it was important to get him involved early. Kmet sparked the team with his physical play.” Coach also said “there was no significant injuries for the Irish. Came out healthy after the physical game.”
Four Key Factors
Offensive Line Protection
Protect the Quarterback!. Again this week a big defensive group matches up against the Irish offensive line. The Cavaliers defense is number one in the country with 20 sacks. Jordan Mack ILB has 5 of those 20. Book will need to get the ball out quick to avoid being part of Mack’s stats.
Defense
Need to continue the mental dominance of the opposition’s QB. Despite the loss last weekend, the defense has held its opponents to 30 points or less in 17 consecutive games, matching Washington for the FBS lead in that category. Just avoid extending drive of the Cavaliers with undisciplined penalties.
Special Teams
Continue doing what you are doing. Jay Bramblett continues to flip the field when called upon. Chase Claypool last week had the fumble recovery on the other side of Jay Bramblett’s booming punt inside the 10 setting up the first score of the game.
The 12th Man
There is a request from various boards about fan participation. Participation in the form of the 12th man. Crowd noise played a factor in the Bulldogs game. Crowd noise needs to increase for the remainder of the home games. Making the opponent uncomfortable is the bonus of playing at home. Bring the NOISE against the Cavaliers.
Our Picks
Jimmy
If ND wins at Georgia, this becomes a trap game. The Cavaliers could have 10-11 wins this year. Last year they beat Miami, lost to Pitt, GT, VT in over time. Bronco Mendenhall is a very good coach. The Cavaliers are returning 13 starters from last season.
Jimmy chooses ND 28-20
George
If ND losses to the Bulldogs, they are not losing two in a row. If they beat the Bulldogs in the previous week, their demons can be their over confidence. Either way the Irish cannot dwell on the past. They need to play in the moment. The Irish will be showing their fans the direction of this team a the conclusion of this match-up. Confidence and control are the keys to victory.
George chooses ND 31-17
Game Information
Date: Saturday, September 28, 2019
Time: 3:42 p.m. ET NBC (National)
Site: Notre Dame Stadium
Notre Dame, IN
Radio: Notre Dame Radio Network
• SiriusXM (Channel 129)
• 96.1 FM, 101.5 FM & 960 AM
Are u available to join us live Wed Oct 9th from 8-9:30pm on HerbFM Sports Radio
I connected with you on twitter dm me so that we can talk further. Thank you for the invite