3 Keys for BC to keep it competitive with Notre Dame
Well, it’s Notre Dame weekend.
I wish there was more buzz for this game, but obviously, circumstances dictate the hype around facing the No. 12 team in the country as 30-point underdogs.
Anyway, here’s how I think BC can keep it somewhat competitive, but this is most likely a blowout by halftime…
Run defense/tackling has to be at its best
Obviously, Jeremiyah Love (124 carries, 758 yards, 9 touchdowns) and Jaradian Price (76 carries, 509 yards, 8 touchdowns) is a dynamic duo on the ground and BC has had tons of trouble giving up big plays to running backs this season, most recently on display against Louisville. If BC is going to have ANY chance of at least staying in this for a while, wrapping up in the open field is going to be imperative. If both guys are able to rip off 15, 20, 30 or more-yard runs, then this one is going to get out of hand in a hurry. If BC can limit the running game even a little bit and force Notre Dame to convert third down after third down, maybe you can get a stop or a turnover here or there. But, if the Fighting Irish run game is able to go wild like Louisville did, it’s going to get ugly.
Pass rush needs to show up
Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr has 14 touchdowns and only four picks, BUT he has been sacked 10 times this season. That means it is humanly possible to affect him at times, but the problem is BC’s pass rush has been nonexistent this season. Now, part of that is missing an elite player like Donnovan Ezeirauku, the other is just that guys like Favor Bate and Q Hutchins haven’t been able to replicate some of the success they were having in the summer which made us all think they might be able to replace that production that left in the NFL Draft. BC can’t just let Carr sit back and dish it out all day against this banged up, young secondary. If the Eagles can force a couple rushed throws and a turnover or two then maybe there’s a shot it’s a game, but if Carr can just sit back there and pick them apart, BC has no shot.
Prayers
In a matchup of two Catholic schools, fans and players alike can hope that maybe God wants BC to win this one more than Notre Dame. Like, the Eagles have had a rough season, while Notre Dame is inevitably a few wins away from another CFP appearance. If enough Eagles fans pray for one positive day for fans wearing maroon and gold in 2025, maybe this is it? Otherwise, this one probably gets out of hand rather quickly, especially if youngster Dylan Lonergan starts over Grayson James after James got banged up late against Louisville.
Prediction
Notre Dame 42, BC 17 – Just one of those years. BC keeps it close until the half, Notre Dame pulls away with more health, depth and talent in the second half.
We’re on to men’s basketball on Monday.
