The keys to the right win.

As I mentioned earlier in the week, Notre Dame not only needs a win, but a BIG win.  If they are the team we hoped for before the season started and the team we now think they are becoming, they need to blow out this Purdue team.   Of course, we will take a 14 – 10 win (if we lose, we will be below 500, a win puts the Irish over 500), but how much real confidence can be gained?  With that being said, here are the keys needed for a big win.

·         Two running backs with a combined 200+ yards.  Although the Purdue defense is bulky in the middle and designed to stop the run, this would be a statement for the offensive line. 

·         Michael Floyd with 100+ yards receiving with at least two touchdowns.  Although he may be double covered and the defense may be focusing on him, he is that good of a receiver and after the last game, he and Rees need to show it.

·         Tommy Rees needs to limit his turnovers to one.  It should be none but looking at his turnover numbers (6 interceptions and 3 fumbles), one would be pretty good.  Tommy also has to get receivers other than Eifert and Floyd more involved.

·         Theo Riddick and Tommy Roma need to have “breakout” games.  Neither one needs a 100+ yards receiving or a touchdown, but they should get at least 3-5 catches each.

·         David Ruffer CANNOT miss a field goal, no matter the distance.

·         Punt returns need to average better than .8 yards per return.  Since we already have a kickoff returned for a touchdown, a punt return for a TD would be nice.

·         The defensive secondary needs at least one interception.  Overall the defense needs one (if not multiple) turnovers.  The Irish defense also needs to have a multiple sack game (2 or more), preferably from the defensive line.

·         The Irish need to lead from the opening kickoff to the final gun.

The one exception to this need for a 49-0 win is if the Irish are up big early, pulling the starters and giving them a rest while getting some of the younger players and backups some real game experience.  However, I would still demand a 14-17 point win.