SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) – Ninth-ranked Notre Dame is looking to extend its seven-game winning streak against No. 22 Pittsburgh on Saturday afternoon.
Here’s a look at our WNDU 16 News Now GAMEDAY team’s keys to the game, players to watch and game picks.
KEYS TO THE GAME
Jackson Neill: Run blocking
The Irish obviously have two great backs. But Pitt has the nation’s third-best rushing defense, only allowing about 81 rushing yards per game.
I’m not worried about Jeremiyah Love or Jadarian Price since they always show up. Instead, Notre Dame’s offensive line will need to be solid.
With injuries, there’s been different starting combos up front with Joe Otting at center and Sullivan Absher at guard. This is a game where regardless of any one player’s experience they will need to be working as a cohesive unit.
Sabrina Hoover: Passing offense
This offense needs to continue to put up big numbers and find success through the air against a talented Panther defense.
I have faith Jeremiyah Love will have success here in this game.. But what we saw from CJ Carr last week against Navy needs to continue in a game like this. Carr was able to connect downfield to guys like Malachi Fields, Will Pauling, even KK Smith.
That level of explosiveness from Carr needs to continue today because it’s getting to the time of the year where Notre Dame needs to show they can get a big win — a statement win against a talented team on the road.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Jackson Neill: Jordan Faison (Wide Receiver)
We just touched on how good Pitt’s rushing defense is. Meanwhile, the Panthers have the 10th-best passing defense in the conference, allowing over 237 yards through the air.
Notre Dame will throw the ball. And while I expect all of the receivers to have a big day, I’m going with Jordan Faison.
He’s only been over 100 yards once so far this season back vs Purdue. This will be his second game over 100 yards.
Sabrina Hoover: Christian Gray (Cornerback)
Christian Gray is now off the injury report after missing the past two games.
This is going to be a huge test for the Notre Dame defense. They are going from playing a team like Navy who runs the triple option to a team like Pitt who has success through the air and has put up quite a few points in their last few games.
So, Notre Dame will need a big game from guys like Gray.
GAME PICKS
Jackson Neill: Notre Dame 31, Pittsburgh 21
Sabrina Hoover: Notre Dame 45, Pittsburgh 21
Chris Zorich: Notre Dame 28, Pittsburgh 7
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