In its last game, Notre Dame’s defense shut down what was then the country’s top scoring offense in USC. After a performance like that, there’s no opponent this unit can’t stick around with. The pass defense in particular has impressed throughout the season, and Caleb Williams learned why as he played himself out of the possibility for consecutive Heisman Trophies against the Irish. Really though, there are few weaknesses with this group.
Pittsburgh’s defense has been decent, but the offense is where it suffers. Not one major statistical category stands out, and it stands to reason that these struggles are a major reason the Panthers are 2-5. If this continues Saturday, the game will be over very quickly as the Irish’s offense will give the defense plenty of support. There’s little reason to think it won’t continue.
Here’s a look at how the Irish’s defense matches up with the Panthers’ offense: