You’ve got questions…we’ve got answers.

Here are some questions (in bold) in an article posed by ND Nation’s John Vannie along with Talking Irish’s responses (in italics).

Can Golson and the Irish keep their emotions in check and get off to a solid start?

One of the goals Brian Kelly has had for his team is to get off to a fast start, which they have done very well thus far, outscoring their opponents 75 – 9 in the first quarter this season.  The Irish statistically play better on the road leaving all the distractions associated with home games behind, and I think this game will be no exception.

Will Notre Dame’s secondary minimize USC’s yards after catch with proper angles and crisp tackling?

I for one hope that Notre Dame’s secondary will minimize catches.  I believe three things will happen: first, USC’s wide receivers will have some big chunk play receptions (hopefully not too many), second, the Irish secondary will make solid tackles; and finally, Wittek will be intercepted at least once in this game.

Can USC stop the run while keeping its safeties back in a Tampa-2 defense?

Yes, at times, but not enough.  The Irish running backs will break off some big runs (the sooner the better) forcing the USC safeties to step up more often than they want to.

Will Wittek have time to display the poise and accuracy the Trojans will need?

At times, but he will also see the likes of Nix, Shembo, Tuitt, and Lewis-Moore crashing in on him causing him to think twice on throws, question his audibles and running for his life.

Can USC’s offensive line repeat last year’s domination of the Irish front seven?

No.  If you have seen any of Notre Dame’s games you know that is an easy question to answer.

Will this be the game that special teams play finally costs Notre Dame a victory?

I don’t think so.  It will not be the game in which it has to.

Which struggling kicker will come through for his team?

Overall, neither.  Although Kyle Brindza has blown simple kicks, he seems to be better under pressure.

Will the referees dare to call holding on the Trojans?

Contrary to a statement made a ridiculous and irresponsible article ,“All I can say is Max be prepared to go against the most one sided officiating in the history of officiated sports with a BCS championship game for Notre Dame on the line.” the officials should do their jobs as assigned.