Notre Dame Football: Key Defensive Matchups vs. Ball State

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MUNCIE, IN – AUGUST 30: Head coach Mike Neu of the Ball State Cardinals watches from the sideline during the game against the Central Connecticut State Blue Devils on August 30, 2018 in Muncie, Indiana. The Cardinals will face the Notre Dame football team on Saturday. (Photo by Bobby Ellis/Getty Images) /

Are are the matchups to watch when the Notre Dame football defense takes on Ball State this weekend.

The Irish defense looked elite in the Notre Dame football season-opener against Michigan. They consistently generated pressure on the Wolverine quarterbacks, forced two turnovers, and held the Michigan offense to just 10 points. It was definitely an auspicious start for new defensive coordinator Clark Lea and the Irish.

However, the Michigan offense is far from the best offense Notre Dame will face this season. The Irish will have to clean up some things on the defensive side of the ball. They will also need some younger players to step up in the absence of defensive back Shaun Crawford (ACL) and defensive tackle Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa (foot).

If Mike Brey could offer one piece of advice to Brian Kelly this week, it would be to not underestimate the Ball State Cardinals. They aren’t a college football powerhouse, but they do have an experienced quarterback and some weapons on offense.

Here are some key matchups to follow when the Notre Dame defense is on the field.

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