Notre Dame Football: 3 Bold Predictions vs. Virginia

Ian Book puts on a memorable performance

Book has had plenty of great games during his time with Notre Dame while being put in a vast amount of situations. From replacing an injured Brandon Wimbush, taking over the starting position, earning a trip to the College Football Playoff and playing in hostile environments such as Georgia — Book has seen it all.

If there is one thing you can take away at the end of his college career, it’s that he’s been in almost every situation.

There was doubt surrounding Book going into the Georgia game last week. Many looked at the first two games of the season and made the assumption that he’s lost his confidence and no longer looks like the guy that could lead the Irish.

Compared to the first two games, Book had to redesign the game plan for Georgia.

The Irish captain doubled the number of throws he had attempted vs. Louisville and New Mexico combined. Staying in the pocket against the Georgia defense is a difficult task. Notre Dame’s offensive line as of late hasn’t helped in that matter either.

Still, Book kept his poise and hit his marks. The quarterback was able to make many plays while being pressured — even throwing off of his back foot multiple times.

The confidence is back and much of that has to do with Cole Kmet also making his season debut.

How much has Kmet been missed?

Book connected with his tight end nine times last week for 108 yards and a touchdown, making him the second-leading receiver on the Irish roster in just one game.

It’s safe to say that another target makes Book more dynamic. If Michael Young is able to make his return this weekend, Virginia will have absolutely zero answers for what Notre Dame’s aerial attack could do.

Virginia’s tackling hasn’t looked the greatest either. Arm tackles will be no way to bring down Kmet or Chase Claypool.

The other factor that comes into Book’s performance this week is the result of last week.

Book looked distraught after Notre Dame’s failed fourth-down conversion sealed the game. It was the face of someone who laid out their heart and it wasn’t enough. The look was eerily similar to that of Tim Tebow in 2008, which was followed by the famous “I Promise” speech.

Florida’s loss to Ole Miss that season was the motivating factor that led them to a National Championship.

Last week has the potential to be a season-defining loss in the most positive way possible if the captain, Book, can grasp that same feeling while leading the rest of the talent that Notre Dame possesses.