Irish vs the Men of Troy

Notre Dame's long awaited game against USC is almost here and a victory over the Men of Troy can go a long away in helping the Irish have a successful season.
For Notre Dame to win, they have to be at their best in all phases of the game. Jimmy Claussen has been excellent so far but he is facing a huge test with USC's defense which is both athletic and fast. This is the best defense Claussen will face this year and safety Taylor Mayes covers ground better than any other safety playing college football. Claussen must recognize this to avoid any turnovers because Notre Dame must have no turnovers to have any chance of winning. Hopefully a healthy Armando Allen can establish a solid running game and make it easier for Claussen to establish a rhythm in his passing game.
The defense won't have it any easier trying to contain USC's offense. As always USC is loaded with high caliber running backs and Joe McKnight looks to be the most dangerous of the bunch. The pass rush has been improving though and there is the possibility they can create turnovers by pressuring freshman quarterback Matt Barkley into throwing interceptions.
On special teams Notre Dame will need to take a few more chances. While Golden Tate has been outstanding this year as a wide receiver, he has been taking too many fair catches on punt returns. This is the game for Tate to take some shots and returning a punt for a touchdown because those types of big plays determine the outcome of the game.
There's no doubt this is easily the toughest game the Irish will have this season but if their defense can create turnovers and the offense plays aggressive and smart, the Irish can prevail.
Look for another close game which all Irish fans are getting use to by now with the Irish coming out on top.


Go Irish!!!