Last Minute Purdue

The Talking Irish staff, much like the Fighting Irish, enjoyed our trip to Ireland but are happy to be back home for Purdue.  Notre Dame will be in the friendly confines of South Bend while we will be comfortable at Shamrock Jack’s.

Not unlike last week against Navy, the keys and game plan for an Irish win over the Boilermakers is relatively simple.

Control the line of scrimmage.  Although Purdue will put up more size, speed, strength and talent than the Irish saw last week on both lines Notre Dame will win this battle.  If the running backs can get past the D-line they will encounter a subpar linebacker crew.  Sticking with three down linebackers (Prince Shembo and Ishaq Williams) will play a more pivotal role at the line.

Complete the short passes.  Especially to backs (running and slot) and tight ends, picking on Purdue’s soft spots at linebacker.  Why challenge the Boilermakers’ talented cornerbacks?

Neaten up the Special Teams.  Missing extra points and not handling punts can take the wind out of our sails real quick.  Although the Boilermakers’ special teams looked even worse last week, watch out for their kickoff return game, which led the nation last year.

Force Purdue quarterbacks (whoever is on the field for the Boilermakers at the time) to feel uncomfortable and don’t let them be athletic or confident.

Even though I have seen some ESPN staff (who at best dislike Notre Dame) put the Irish on upset alert, I like a 20+ win today in South Bend.

Also Note:  Purdue committed FIVE turnovers in their win last week against Eastern Kentucky.  If they do that against the Irish, Notre Dame will win by 40+.

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