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Notre Dame

Change for a nickel? Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame ponder their pass-defense options vs. USC

Eric Hansenby: Eric Hansen10/14/25EHansenND
Christian Gray and Makai Lemon
USC wide receiver Makai Lemon (6) attempts to catch the ball against Notre Dame cornerback Christian Gray (29) in a 49-35 Irish road win on Nov. 30. Kirby Lee/Imagn Images

Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman faces his toughest pass-defense test of the season as the Irish prepare for USC star wideout Makai Lemon. With nickel back DeVonta Smith battling injuries, freshman Dallas Golden and All-America corner Leonard Moore may be tasked with slowing one of the nation’s most explosive receivers.