Notre Dame vs Indiana Preview

Tommorrow’s game between Notre Dame and Indiana, in my opinion, will be the biggest game Notre Dame has played this year so far. I know its early, but trust me, this game has big implications for both teams.

Why is this game important to Indiana?

Coming off a huge win against number one Kentucky, Indiana is now a team to watch. They are 9-0 on the season and have everyone’s attention. If they lose this game, everyone will believe that their win against Kentucky was a fluke.

Why is it important for Notre Dame?

Beating a team that came off an upset like Indiana did gives them a “target on their backs.” Everyone wants to have a go at them and I’m sure Notre Dame is no different. A win against the Hoosiers would give Notre Dame some national recognition and some confidence going into the Big East, which is only 2 games away.

Notre Dame will need everyone to step up in this game, but junior Jack Cooley and sophomore Eric Atkins will have to have a spectacular game for the Irish to be successful. Here’s my projections for the game for these 2 players. If they reach these numbers I expect Notre Dame to win.

Jack Cooley:  25 minutes, 20 points, 10 rebounds, 2 blocks

Eric Atkins: 40 minutes, 18 points, 3 rebounds, 7 assist

If they can post these numbers, Notre Dame has a solid chance of winning.