Notre Dame Football: Why Irish Will Spoil Michigan State's Top-15 Billing

Despite an 0-2 record, Notre Dame entered Saturday's game against No. 15 Michigan State as slight favorites. The Fighting Irish have lived up to their favored status thus far, as they lead the Spartans 21-10. The Irish jumped out to a 14-3 lead, but the Spartans answered back. Despite that, the Irish are in good position to get in the win column.

Over the season's first two games, the Irish offense has moved the ball thanks to quarterback Tommy Rees and the passing game. Notre Dame has used the running game to jump ahead of the Spartans, however, as running backs Cierre Wood and Jonas Gray have already combined for over 100 rushing yards.

Notre Dame's special teams have also gotten involved, particularly George Atkinson III, who returned a kickoff for a touchdown at the end of the first quarter. Aside from turnovers, Notre Dame's defense has been its biggest Achilles' heel to this point in the season, and is directly responsible for its 0-2 start.

That continues to be a problem because quarterback Kirk Cousins and the Spartan offense have actually moved the ball effectively against Notre Dame. If the Irish defense can stiffen a bit, then Notre Dame should have a great opportunity to win. Notre Dame's offense has moved the ball at will against Michigan State and shows no signs of slowing down.

Notre Dame's success running the ball has added a new dimension to the offense and will only allow things to open up downfield for Rees and the passing game. It is never safe to assume that Notre Dame will hang onto a lead, as they have routinely lost heartbreaking games over the past few seasons, including one to Michigan State in overtime last season.

Provided Rees and the offense protect the ball, though, there has been no indication that the Spartan defense can make a stop. A win would go a long way in saving Notre Dame's season, and it would give the Irish confidence that they can beat anyone remaining on their schedule.