The Trojans (6-1), ranked 11th in the nation, saw their football lives flash before them last weekend in a 28-27 comeback victory over Utah. USC rallied from a 21-7 halftime deficit, taking its first lead with less than five minutes to play then stopping the Utes on what would have been a game-winning two point conversion.
USC is often seen as Hollywood, a finesse team, but it was grit and tenacity that made for the victory.
 |
| LB Cameron Smith is the leader for USC's defense (Bleacher Report) |
"I've always told them never get comfortable, never be satisfied, and the reality is we're still a work in progress," coach Clay Helton said. "To execute on long drives like the offense did in the second half while protecting the football, I thought it was our best half of football. We've challenged ourselves. That's what you are going to have to do when you go up and play a Notre Dame team that's as talented as this group is. Put a full 60 minutes of that brand of football out there."
A single point separates the 13th-ranked Irish (5-1) from unbeaten status, that being a 20-19 loss to a formidable Georgia squad in mid September. Notre Dame has grown from soft to stout, relying on a powerful, ball control running game and showing toughness on defense.
The Irish rank fourth nationally in opponents red zone touchdown percentage (35 percent), which is one reason this group might just be around for the long haul.
"I think it's really important to do a great job of matching personnel," Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly said. "I think we've done that. Our ability to get personnel in and out of the game to match personnel groupings has really helped us in that area and not get shored in -- for example, being in nickel when an extra tight end is in the game or two backs are in the game."
Most people know about USC quarterback Sam Darnold, but even he admits that the Trojans don't beat Utah without a stellar effort from the defense.
Linebacker Cameron Smith has really come into his own, showing great leadership skills and an ability to always be around the football. He made 16 stops against Utah, and had an interception, so his play will be vital if USC is to stop Notre Dame's fifth-ranked rushing offense (308 yards per game).
“They truly believe in running the ball first to set up the pass game,” Helton said.
USC is no slouch with its back to the wall, allowing just 41.4 percent touchdowns in the red zone, good for 12th nationally.
"I think we've got two good ball clubs right now, I'll be honest with you,” Helton said. “There are a lot of high stakes on the line. It’s great for college football when both teams are doing well, and there’s so much excitement around the game on a national scope. It makes it fun for the players, the coaches and the fans.”
Darnold definitely has that "it" factor, even if he has been more prone to turnovers this season. His nine interceptions in seven games matches his total from all of last season, and has lost three fumbles. He's his own harshest critic, stating that he "needs to play better, be more careful," but he also dazzles with his ability to step up in the pocket and make throws that few in America can make.
Darnold has completed just under 63 percent of his passes, but has improved on his decision-making, throwing six touchdowns to just one interception in the last two games.
Kelly knows that he merits a ton of attention from the Irish defense.
"What separates him from the other quarterbacks is his ability to find that open window in tight spaces with a quick, quick release," Kelly said. "I mean, that ball comes out of his hand as well as anybody that I've seen."
Ronald Jones Jr. has rushed for 318 yards in the last three games, scoring a touchdown in each, and averages 106.7 yards per contest, with eight scores. He's shifty and elusive enough that the Irish cannot commit all of their resources to stopping Darnold.
 |
| Notre Dame QB Brandon Wimbush is a major dual threat (Indianapolis Star) |
Jones won't be the only standout ballcarrier on the field.
Notre Dame's Josh Adams, ranked seventh nationally with 129.3 yards per game and a 9.02 average per carry. The Irish commit to running the football, taking some pressure off of quarterback Brandon Wimbush in the passing game. Wimbush has eight rushing touchdowns and is lethal in the Irish's spread attack. He has been erratic in the passing game, completing just 52.3 percent, but has done a good job minimizing mistakes, tossing six touchdowns to just two interceptions.
The Irish defense has allowed just one rushing touchdown and is among the top 10 nationally in turnover margin. New defensive coordinator Bob Diaco has Notre Dame playing more aggressively on defense, disguising coverages and pressures. Notre Dame has taken the football away eight times in the last three contests.
This is the first time since 2009 that both teams enter the game ranked, and the stakes could be as high as they were in 2005, when USC was ranked No. 1 and Notre Dame ninth. That was the year of the infamous "Bush Push," when USC tailback Reggie Bush gave an assist to quarterback Matt Leinart on a keeper with seven seconds left to play. Leinart crossed the goal line and USC won 34-31.
USC has won 12 of the last 16 matchups, but the Irish have won two of the last three contests in South Bend.
"I think it's important our players are aware of the game and the circumstances because that's why they come here," Kelly said. "It's important not to just bury your head in the sand; be aware of it.
"I would like to think it's going to be a great atmosphere in the stadium. I'm sure our students will be back for it. I'm sure it will be a great atmosphere."
No comments:
Post a Comment