Notre Dame Football First Look: Bowling Green Falcons

Conclusion

Bowling Green may be one of the worst football teams in the FBS at this point in the season.

The offense lacks any true weapons and it has failed to produce in any significant ways. The rushing attack, which it has relied on so far this season, is sub-par at best. Its passing game is almost nonexistent. Notre Dame’s defense, which recorded 8 sacks and forced 5 turnovers last weekend against a formidable Virginia team, will be chomping at the bit to take advantage of this glaring mismatch. The goal for the Irish defense should be a shutout, and given Bowling Green’s play thus far, it should be a fairly attainable one.

On the other side of the ball, Brian VanGorder’s defense has been even worse. The Falcons have one of the worst defenses in the FBS and there’s no reason to think Notre Dame’s offense won’t run wild.

The Irish will likely continue to refine its running game and use its stars sparingly. Don’t be surprised to see a few unfamiliar faces get significant playing time as Notre Dame looks to stay healthy going into the upcoming games against USC and Michigan.

Will Notre Dame cover as 44.5-point favorites? It depends.

Head coach Brian Kelly may be content to see his offense establish the run, build a sizable lead, and play some clock management with the second unit to keep the game plan simple and avoid injuries. Or, he could open up the playbook and add another 60-plus point game to the Irish’s playoff resume.

In all likelihood, Kelly will choose the former — and the Irish may still put up big numbers.

Regardless, if all goes according to plan, this should be an easy win for Notre Dame.