Notre Dame will have to lean into its strengths in order to beat South Carolina in the Gator Bowl. The defense is an obvious strength for the Irish, as are the ability to stay disciplined and prevent first downs. They also have done a good job at holding onto the ball for extended periods, and that will be key for an offense missing some familiar names. The question is whether that will lead to points.
The Gamecocks are as good on special teams in all aspects as anyone in the country. It would be a nice time for the Irish to unleash that punt blocking they’ve become known for throughout this season. The Irish also will want to be wise in fourth-down passing situations on offense because it’s more likely than not that the Gamecocks will come up big there. Either way, this game should be won by the better defense, but it won’t matter if the points aren’t there to support it.
[mm-video type=playlist id=01eqbz1mmy7gev0xbr player_id=01eqbvp13nn1gy6hd4 image=]
Contact/Follow us @IrishWireND on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Notre Dame news, notes, and opinions.
Follow Geoffrey on Twitter: @gfclark89