Notre Dame-Washington Preview: Rested Irish Face Winless Huskies

Summary

Both teams have weaknesses that can be exploited, but the Irish have better weapons and strengths that the Huskies cannot match. Willingham appears to be a lame duck, and the schedule does not get easier as Washington will travel to face USC in Los Angeles next week.

Notre Dame can help itself by getting off to a fast start and putting their hosts in a hole. The Irish are coming off a bye week and may be lethargic after the long flight, but these are not valid excuses against this opponent.

The most important aspect for Notre Dame and Clausen is to avoid the turnovers that plagued them in their previous road outings. If the Irish break even or win this battle, they will emerge with a comfortable win.

Clausen should have another fine performance despite the absence of David Grimes, who is suffering from back spasms. Duval Kumara, who has played well recently after a slow start, will probably fill in. The Irish should otherwise be ready to go.

The coaching staff has engaged in self-scouting during the bye week and will presumably correct some of the defensive mistakes that have enabled opponents to run for considerable yardage. It remains to be seen whether or not Notre Dame can improve its anemic pass rush.

Here are a few questions that will help determine the outcome.

Which team will shake off its season-long ineptitude on the ground and run the ball with authority?

Will Fouch have enough time in the pocket to hurt the Irish?

Will Notre Dame be able to start fast after a bye week?

Can Washington’s porous defense force Irish turnovers? Which team will get a boost from its special teams?

Will Notre Dame’s defense demonstrate improvement after two weeks of self-scouting?

Prediction

Washington is quite similar to Notre Dame’s 2007 edition, which is to say they are very young and very bad. Twelve freshmen have played extensively this year, and nine have started at least one game. It’s also no surprise that they do not appear to be well coached given Willingham’s track record.

After last week’s game, the Husky coach said, "The ball game tonight was a game in which we didn't make enough big plays, gave up too many big plays, didn't create any turnovers and gave turnovers. If those things could have been avoided....” This same statement will probably be appropriate on Saturday evening as well.

Notre Dame 38, Washington 20

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