Michigan State vs. Notre Dame: 5 Second-Half Adjustments the Irish Should Make

It has been a wild first half in South Bend. Between a ton of turnovers, big plays and momentum swings, it's nearly impossible to predict what's going to happen next.

Notre Dame could easily be ahead by a mile, but a couple of turnovers and various mistakes have kept Michigan State in the game. The Irish look like a better team through one half, but MSU is a very dangerous team and could come back in a heartbeat.

If Notre Dame is going to win this game, it will need to continue in much the same way that we've seen in the first half. That said, here are some important tweaks that can ensure an Irish victory.

Hold on to the Ball

Tommy Rees has a fumble and an interception. He's had seven turnovers in his first eight quarters this season. It's not entirely his fault (that was a heck of a hit to force the fumble), but he needs to do a better job protecting the football.

Notre Dame just can't afford any more major mistakes if it's going to hold on to this game.

Re-Establish the Run Game

Cierre Wood ran all over the Spartans defense in the first possession of the game. Jonas Gray did the same in the second drive.

But Notre Dame got away from the running game a little bit as the half wore on, and the Irish didn't look as effective on offense. Re-establishing those 4-5 yard first down runs will be crucial.

Focus on Getting D-Line Pressure on Cousins

Kirk Cousins had an absolutely awful first quarter. His second quarter was better, but he still doesn't look like himself.

The main reason for this is that the Irish defensive line has been dominant at creating pressure, and it's freed up the linebackers to play coverage. ND needs to keep creating pressure with the front-four or else this talented MSU QB could be able to shred the defense.

Build Rees' Confidence with Short Passes

Tommy Rees hasn't looked bad, but he hasn't gotten into any rhythm either. Notre Dame shouldn't force him to carry the offense, but he also needs to get some momentum going with quick slants and bubble screens.

Stay Calm

Yes, it's an important game. But Notre Dame needs to stay calm.

A lot can happen in the second half, and Brian Kelly just needs to keep his team on track and not panic. This would be an absolutely huge win for the Irish, and they can't let nerves get into the way.