Notre Dame Football: Key Offensive Matchups vs. Michigan

Notre Dame Wide Receivers vs Michigan Secondary

You could argue that this will be one of the most entertaining matchups to watch for. Notre Dame has the experience returning in the passing game with Chase Claypool and Miles Boykin — just not the production. Along with Claypool and Boykin are Chris Finke, Kevin Austin, and Michael Young.

Claypool and Boykin are going to be the No. 1 and No. 2 guys. With each standing at 6-4, they are tall, physical receivers who can create mismatches with their size — especially in the red zone. All of Michigan’s starters in the defensive backfield from last season return in 2018. That group consists of cornerbacks Lavert Hill and David Long and safeties Josh Metellus and Tyree Kinnel.

Though they didn’t play the best competition, this secondary finished fourth in the country in defensive pass efficiency last season. Led by Lavert Hill — who many believe is one of the best cornerbacks in the Big Ten — it will be a game of cat-and-mouse all night between these two position groups.

Notre Dame has the advantage when it comes to the size mismatches on the outside. The Irish can also go with their speed players and utilize Austin and Young to provide a nice compliment to the more physical style of Claypool and Boykin. What the Irish lack is experience and a dependable play maker outside of their top two receivers. If the passing game is going to succeed Saturday, other players not named Chase or Miles will have to step up.

Michigan has the advantage in the experience department. Whoever is lined up on an Irish receiver will be a game-tested player, which could prove very beneficial for Michigan.