Notre Dame Football: Key Offensive Matchups vs. Michigan

With the highly anticipated  Notre Dame football game against Michigan just two days away,  there are a lot of key matchups that will decide the outcome. Here are the matchups to watch for when the Irish are on offense.

Notre Dame football certainly has some question marks on the offensive side of the ball heading into the season opener vs. Michigan. Doubts about Brandon Wimbush and lack of running back experience have many holding their breath when the Irish take on a very good Michigan defense Saturday night.

Michigan returns nine of its eleven starters from a season ago — only losing defensive tackle Maurice Hurst and linebacker Mike McCray. Last season, Michigan allowed the 3rd fewest total yards nationally all season, giving up only 142.7 passing yards (ranked 1st in the nation) and 125.9 rushing yards (ranked 25th) per game. They were also ranked 9th in defensive efficiency. These numbers are very impressive, but outside of Wisconsin, Ohio State, and Penn State (all losses), they did not face consistently tough opponents with good offenses.

It is safe to say the Michigan faithful have high expectations for their defense this year, and those expectations are warranted with the talent they have returning. Fortunately, the Irish offense has strengths that can potentially matchup well with Michigan’s defense. Size on the perimeter, a very talented trio of tight ends that provide great versatility, an experienced signal caller, and of course, one of the best offensive lines in college football.

Regardless, it will be a back and forth battle all night between the Irish offense and Michigan defense.

Here are some of the biggest battles and most important matchups to watch for.