The biggest headline going into this week was, that this wasn’t a traditional Notre Dame vs Navy week. Historically this rivalry had been dominated by Notre Dame, with a record of 80-13-1. The rivalry has become less about the game and more about the traditions and history between the two schools. However, with Navy going into this game undefeated and ranked in the AP Poll. It seemed like this game might be more competitive than it had been in years.
Yet despite all the hype, Notre Dame continued their dominance over Navy, crushing them 51-14. Now although people will say “It’s just Navy”, this Navy team has been one of the most impressive teams this season. They came into this game averaging 44.8 points per game and 435 yards per game. They were one of the better offensives in the country. However, Notre Dame’s defense held Navy well below those season averages. It’s just another example of this defense being one of the best in the country.
This win also makes the Irish resume so much better. They’re now 3-0 against ranked opponents this season and extend their winning streak to six games. They’ve also made the loss to NIU look like a complete fluke. With how well they played against teams better than that NIU team, it’s foolish to think that the NIU game is what this Notre Dame team is, and not the dominant force we’ve seen every game since. It’s at the point where the loss might not be held against the Irish when it comes time to pick the playoffs. Here are the other major takeaways from Saturday’s victory.
Forcing and Capitlizing on Turnovers
One of the main storylines of this game was Notre Dame’s ability to force and capitalize on turnovers. In total, the Irish forced six turnovers (five fumbles and one interception). That means that four of Navy possessions ended with them giving the ball to Notre Dame. They also lost two possessions because the fumble happened on the punt return. Killing any momentum that Navy was able to build on that drive.
Even if losing possession wasn’t enough to kill the momentum for Navy, having the Irish capitalize on them is the final nail in the coffin. Notre Dame had a total of 28 points off of Navy turnovers. These are essentially free points for the Irish. Which is exactly what you want to see if you’re an Irish fan. You need the offense to take advantage of the free possession and/or short field that this turnover gives you. You’re essentially leaving points on the board, that could come back to haunt you if you don’t convert.
If Notre Dame continues to force turnovers and convert them into points it gives them a huge advantage. If they’re able to get to the playoffs and play some of the top teams in the country they’re gonna have to find a way to score fast. One of the ways to do this is by forcing turnovers when you are in their territory and then converting them into points. Thus allowing the Irish to stay in the game or put their opponents into a deep hole.
Notre Dame Offensive Line Gets Help
One of the main concerns with this Notre Dame roster was how young the offensive line was. There were a lot of underclassmen and inexperience in the starting lineup. Something that’s been a rarity for the Irish. These concerns were amplified when some of the projected starters went down with injury. If there was one weakness this roster had, that was the one that could’ve hurt the team the most.
However, after seemingly being able to weather the storm, the Irish are getting some reinforcement. Billy Schrauth, the junior interior lineman, made his return to the lineup Saturday, after missing the past four games with a sprained right ankle. With him back, the offensive line put in one of its best performances of the season. Schruath didn’t allow a sack, or QB hurries on Saturday which is huge. His impact was so big that not only did Schruath have a good game, but the entire line had their best performance.
The better the offensive line is, the more explosive the offense can be. When it comes to the rushing attack, a good o-line can open up holes. Allowing for more explosive runs and big gains, which will be huge for the Irish moving the ball. The passing game will also help because the more time Reliy Leonard has for the play to develop. Making it more likely for a receiver to get open and allow the passing game to become more of a threat for the Irish.
Brian Germinaro is a sportswriter for Belly Up Sports. Follow him on Twitter/X for more sports coverage and Belly Up Sports for even more college football content. Feature image credit: Edward Diller.
