Notre Dame Defense Has Several Key Matchups To Win Against Duke

When Notre Dame takes on the Duke Blue Devils this weekend, their defense will be faced with some unique challenges. So far this season, the Irish defense has been playing very well and hopes to continue that momentum moving forward.

There are a couple of key matchups that Notre Dame will need to be ready to win. If they do, it could be a long day for a talented Blue Devil offensive unit.

OUTSIDE PASS RUSHERS vs OT GRAHAM BARTON

BREAKING IT DOWN

The edge pressure from Notre Dame has been inconsistent so far. For the most part, the interior defensive line has been playing very well. Players like Jordan Botelho, Joshua Burnham and Javontae Jean-Baptiste will need to take a step forward if this unit is going to reach their potential.

Duke quietly boasts one of the better offensive lines in the ACC and in all of college football. Their top overall player up front is left tackle Graham Barton, who is also well liked in NFL circles. He’s just a steady offensive lineman who gets the job done consistently.

WHY IT MATTERS

During this game, there needs to be a well rounded approach up front for the Irish defensively. The edge group did not hold up their end of the bargain this past week and that needs to change. How they perform against Barton could be a big precursor to what the rest of the season could bring.

In the big games, consistent pressure is going to be needed. Working against a good offensive line and dual threat quarterback will put them to the ultimate test.

NOTRE DAME LINEBACKERS vs RILEY LEONARD

BREAKING IT DOWN

The linebackers for Notre Dame have been good for the most part in the 2023 season, but there has been some uneven play at times. They are led by middle linebacker JD Bertrand, who is the rock in the middle for a talented Irish defense. Marist Liufau is his rangier counterpart on the inside, having more ability as a playmaker. Add in Jack Kiser and you have a rock solid linebacker group.

Duke quarterback Riley Leonard has shown off his big time talent so far this season. He’s a really gifted passer but so far his legs have been his biggest difference as a player. Leonard is making plays all over the field.

WHY IT MATTERS

In the big moments of football games so far, Leonard has been making big plays when they matter most. He can carve open a defense with his passing talents but his legs have been a huge back breaker for opposing defenses. Those timely plays have helped to keep defenses off balance.

Notre Dame has done very well so far keeping quarterbacks in check with their feet. Leonard will be a different type of challenge. Making plays on him in space will be a big point of emphasis for the Irish.

Be sure to check out the Irish Breakdown message board, the Champions Lounge

Irish Breakdown Content

2023 Scholarship Chart
2023 Football Schedule

Notre Dame 2024 Scholarship Offers

2024 Commit Rankings - Offense
2024 Commit Rankings - Defense

2023 Recruiting Class Grades - Offense
2023 Recruiting Class Grades - Defense

———————

Become a premium Irish Breakdown member, which grants you access to all of our premium content and our premium message board! Click on the link below for more.

BECOME A MEMBER

Be sure to stay locked into Irish Breakdown all the time!

Join the Irish Breakdown community!
Subscribe to the Irish Breakdown YouTube channel
Subscribe to the Irish Breakdown podcast on iTunes
Follow me on Twitter: @RiseNDraft
Like and follow Irish Breakdown on FacebookSign up for the FREE Irish Breakdown daily newsletter