Notre Dame vs. Iowa State Camping World Bowl Gameday Primer

Key Offensive Player for Notre Dame: Cole Kmet, TE

While Kmet did come out weeks ago and say he was in fact returning for his senior season, things aren’t looking as definitive now. Notre Dame’s star TE received a 2nd round NFL draft grade, where he would likely be the first or second TE taken off the board.

Two huge factors in Kmet staying in South Bend for his final season are that he plays baseball for the Notre Dame baseball team where his brother, Casey, is a catcher and infielder. Surely, the thought of Cole pitching to his brother Casey has crossed his mind and will weigh in the decision.

Also, Cole Kmet is very much a kid that prioritizes academics and will be interested in getting his degree from Notre Dame.

Kmet is the player to watch from Notre Dame offensively because how much he plays will be very interesting and will have a major impact on the game against Iowa State as well as next season.

Key Offensive Player for Iowa State: Brock Purdy, QB

There is no denying that Iowa State relies on the passing game and (obviously) QB Brock Purdy is at the helm of it. Purdy had to have initially thought he was not going to play this season starting out as 3rd on the depth chart, but injuries happen and Purdy has now started all 12 games for the Cyclones this season and has been tremendous.

Purdy completed 66.3 percent of his passes this season for 3760 yards and 27 touchdowns. He is second on the team in rushing yards (265) and has 8 touchdowns on the ground.

If Notre Dame can’t put pressure on Purdy and he is given time to throw, the Irish defense could be in trouble.