Notre Dame Football: Play that changed everything against Louisville
By Andrew Hall
The Notre Dame football team struggled against Louisville, and here’s the play that made the difference.
The Notre Dame football team turned a subpar performance against Louisville in front of a reduced crowd of about 10,000 students, faculty, and family.
Despite being a heavy favorite, the Irish struggled to put away a talented but undisciplined Cardinals squad. The game progressed deep into the 4th quarter still in doubt.
With 7:55 left in the contest, Notre Dame took overlooking to close out their 22nd consecutive home victory. The Irish made several plays that kept the drive alive including two 3rd down conversions by quarterback Ian Book. First, he completed a 7-yard pass to Javon McKinley on 3rd and 6. Second, Book connected with Ben Skowronek for a 12-yard gain.
All of these plays led to the climax of the matchup with 2:06 left in the game. The Irish were facing a 3rd and 5 at the Louisville 35 yard line. If the Cards stopped the Irish, it would have forced a field goal attempt from placekicker Jonathan Doerer in a swirling wind.
Even if Doerer connected on a 52-yard field goal, the lead would have only risen to 8 points; allowing Louisville another opportunity to prolong the game. It also is a strong possibility that the Irish would have attempted to go for it on 4th down.
Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees dialed up an inside zone. Patterson, Banks and Eichenberg washed down the right side of Louisville’s defense allowing a huge cutback lane for Notre Dame running back Kyren Williams.
Following a stiff arm by Williams, Book got into the blocking spirit by chipping defensive back Jack Fagot enough to allow Williams another 5 yards. Book’s block was not devastating. In fact, the player he temporarily blocked made the tackle but it endeared him to his teammates and fans. The run allowed Notre Dame to drain the remaining clock with several kneel-downs.
Ultimately, this week’s play that changed the game needed a team effort. It was ugly but it keeps all of Notre Dame’s 2020 aspirations on the table. If Notre Dame wants to achieve these goals, they will need significantly better performances; starting this week against Pittsburgh.