Notre Dame’s offense is off to another slow start despite dominating time of possession through the first 15 minutes. Louisville has to be happy to hold the Irish to such a low offensive output thus far. However, the Irish are happier to hold a 6-0 lead after one quarter.
The Irish put together a 12-play drive mainly consisting of runs to begin the quarter, but it stalled it out. Though Jonathan Doerer salvaged the drive with a 32-yard field goal, it was a disappointing outcome. Fortunately, the defense lived up to its name immediately as it forced on three-and-out on the Cardinals’ first possession.
When the Irish got the ball back, they held onto it for a lengthy amount again. This time, they got as far as the Louisville 7-yard line. Once again, a touchdown eluded them, which was a clear outcome once Monty Montgomery sacked Ian Book for a 5-yard loss on third down. Doerer kicked a 30-yard field goal this time, but again, it could have been much more productive.