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Notre Dame Football Predictions: Miami (OH) vs. Notre Dame

By Andrew Hall

SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 19: A general view of the 'Golden Dome' on the campus of Notre Dame University before the Notre Dame Fighting Irish take on the University of Southern California Trojans at Notre Dame Stadium on October 19, 2013 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 19: A general view of the 'Golden Dome' on the campus of Notre Dame University before the Notre Dame Fighting Irish take on the University of Southern California Trojans at Notre Dame Stadium on October 19, 2013 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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The Notre Dame football program and Miami (OH) met only once in 1909. The country and college football was completely different at that time but the result might be the same.

108 years ago on November 13th, the Fighting Irish (not even officially nicknamed that yet) defeated Miami (OH), 46-0. A similar result may come today when the Irish met the Redhawks at 5:00 pm.

Notre Dame Offense vs. Miami (OH) Defense

Thus far, when Notre Dame physically outmatches their opponent, they absolute dominate the ground game. In contests against Temple and Boston College, the Irish rushed for an average of 468.5 yards. Notre Dame definitely physically outmatches the Redhawks. Despite a banged up backfield, the Irish should run all over the Miami (OH) defense.

Kevin Stepherson makes his 2017 debut against the Redhawks. He may make a huge difference for the Notre Dame passing game. However, it is unclear how much he will actually play. The Irish still need to show improvement in the air and this is a good opportunity to do so. But, Miami (OH) is no slouch in the secondary. Their star, Cornerback Heath Harding, could be the fly in the ointment.

Notre Dame Defense vs. Miami (OH) Offense

In order for the Redhawks to pull of the upset, they will need to run the football and dominate time of possession. Miami (OH) Quarterback Gus Ragland is a legitimate Power 5 player. Along with 6’4″ 216 lbs. Junior James Gardner, he could hurt Notre Dame with his arm if given the opportunity.

Although the Redhawks would like to run the football, their backfield is as banged up as the Irish Running Backs. Notre Dame should be able to stop the rushing attack of Miami (OH).

What does Notre Dame need to look out for? Trick plays and wrinkles that Chuck Martin has saved for this game.

Overall

Notre Dame is favored by 3 touchdowns. The ESPN Football Power Index predicts that the Irish have a 95.9% chance of winning. They will. But, Miami (OH) keeps it closer than the experts think.

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