Notre Dame Football Grades: Offense vs. Miami (FL)

The Notre Dame football team struggled to their lowest output of the season, only scoring 8 points. The Fighting Irish turned the ball over 4 times. In addition, Notre Dame failed to control the line of scrimmage like they had done most of the year. Here is the report card for the Irish offense.

Brandon Wimbush and Ian Book combined for 3 interceptions on Saturday night. Wimbush also fumbled after being blindsided by a Miami (FL) rusher.

There is not much positive to say about the performance of the Quarterbacks. Wimbush began the game well; completing 2 passes to move the chains. However, Wimbush missed a wide open Equanimeous St. Brown that would have been a touchdown. If Wimbush hits St. Brown for a touchdown, it might have changed the complexion of the game. Alas, he missed like he has on many deep passes this season.

Josh Adams struggled against another fast defense. Against Georgia, the Heisman hopeful only rushed for 55 yards. The Hurricanes held Adams to 40 yards on 16 carries. Adams left the game and did not return.

Tony Jones Jr. and Dexter Williams picked up most of the slack. Williams generated the most yards per carry with 7.7.

The  Irish backs failed but it is not entirely their fault. The plays were ineffective against a very fast Linebacking corps. All three players gave it their best effort.

The Wide Receiver group played an up-and-down game. Equanimeous St. Brown emerged from his slump to catch 4 passes for 68 yards. As stated earlier, he would have made a touchdown reception if Wimbush threw the ball on time and accurately.

Sophomore Kevin Stepherson contributed 43 yards on 3 receptions. Stepherson looked like a player who belonged. His speed is a difference maker.

Alize Mack finally got on the board on Saturday night. His touchdown was the lone bright spot on the night. He ended up with 2 receptions for 12 yards including a 14 yard touchdown.

Durham Smythe contributed with one receptions or 16 yards.

Once again, the Notre Dame Offensive Line struggled against a fast defense. The group failed to get off the ground against the Hurricanes.

As he did against Georgia, Mike McGlinchey whiffed on blocks against quick Defensive Ends. McGlinchey will have a great career at Right Tackle. He simply is not a first-round NFL Draft pick and All-Pro Left Tackle.

Notre Dame is left picking up the pieces after getting stormed by the Hurricanes. Chip Long and Brian Kelly need to figure out how they deal with teams like this. The front seven speed of Miami (FL) and Georgia are causing the Irish problems. A combination of better play calling and an improved Quarterback will go a long way for Notre Dame.