Notre Dame: Three Down, Nine to Go

(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

The 2009 season is well under way, and with one quarter of the schedule in the record books, I thought I’d share my impressions about the three games so far. As a self-confessed Notre Dame partisan, I’ll work hard to stay objective. 

1. Our offense can play with anyone in the country

Having seen the level of play over the last two years, one has to be hesitant in making a statement like this. But the Hawaii Bowl wasn’t a fluke. The Irish are potent, averaging 34 points per game, and around 500 yards total offense over the three games this season.

It took me a few games, but I’m now a believer. We can move the ball on anyone. 

2. Our defense is a big problem

The defense was stellar in the opening game with Nevada. But it’s been all down hill since then. While on offense, Notre Dame has been able to go up and down the field at will, but unfortunately, our opponents have been able to as well, making every game a shootout. 

So what’s the problem? Is it scheme? Or is it talent? We knew our d-line was going to be the weakest link, but it isn’t just that.

The strength of this unit was supposed to be the secondary. But pass or run, we’ve had issues. Clearly, success or failure now depends on Tenuta and company plugging the holes and gelling. It isn’t impossible that as the season grinds on it will happen. Otherwise we’ll see more shootouts than Dodge City. 

3. No more tolerance for critics bashing NDs "easy schedule"

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