Notre Dame Football: 3 bold predictions vs. Stanford

Offense surpasses 500 yards

Ever since the loss to Michigan, Notre Dame has been taking it to another level especially — on the offensive side of the ball.

Versus Virginia Tech, it was the perfect set up for Ian Book to flop and derail his entire season. Instead, he made the game-winning play on his feet and his confidence from the 2018 season had officially returned.

His numbers from passing yards to rushing and even completion percentages are much closer to what we expected back in fall camp. What’s been even more of a relief has been that Book has unleashed the long ball and is making even better reads when it comes to his runs.

All we can do is stand amazed when looking at what the Book to Chase Claypool connection has become. Many knew what it had the potential to become, but never saw the fruits of their labor until now.

Now the Irish are coming off of their third game this season with over 500 yards, and that may tally up to four after this Saturday.

Stanford’s defense has failed to meet expectations his season but that would be expected taking into account the issues they have had to deal with in injuries. Now, this is a defense that gives up just under 430 yards per game.

Five teams this season have exceeded 490 offensive yards against Stanford, including Washington State who racked up 624 yards just two games ago.

The Cardinal defense isn’t where it needs to be, and now this team is broken after last week’s loss to California.

The come from behind victory in the last couple minutes not only carries a heavy weight because of the rivalry, but it also eliminated Stanford from bowl eligibility.

This Saturday will stand as the final game of the season for the Cardinal, as all they have left to play for is pride. Will that be enough for a defense looking to stop Book and his weapons as they continue to roll?