Notre Dame Football: Elliott was Unsung Hero vs. Ball State

With Notre Dame football beating Ball State in a closer-than-expected game, the defense came up big at times and Jalen Elliott made it happen.

Coming into the game it was highly expected that the Notre Dame football team would be able to get some players good experience. With the game so close, that didn’t happen the way fans thought it would.

Instead, Jalen Elliott gained some monumental experience. The safety came into the game without an interception on his resume. He now has two after Ball State. Of course, interceptions can always change the momentum of the game. Elliott just happened to make two during prime opportunities.

In a one-score game almost mid-way through the second quarter, Elliott made his first huge play. Notre Dame’s offense really hadn’t had much going for them. While able to move the ball, the points didn’t follow.

In dire need for even a little bit of momentum, Riley Neal was intercepted by Elliott with 8:23 left in the second quarter. After the 11-yard return, the momentum change was felt instantly. One play later, Tony Jones Jr. broke out for a 31-yard rush to extend the lead.

It looked like Ball State would steal back some momentum to start the second half. Someone had to make a change with only positive plays coming out of the locker room for the Cardinals.

Once again, it was Elliott with his second interception of the day. With another double-digit yard return, the momentum became huge. Notre Dame’s offense capped it off with a quick six play, 56-yard drive to take more of a commanding lead.

Elliott continued to make a difference even when the ball wasn’t in the air. With seven tackles, four of which were solo, he made a case for the rest of the season. Not only was it an impressive game for Elliott, but it could be huge for the Irish defense as a whole moving forward.