Notre Dame Football: Defensive position grades vs. Clemson

Notre Dame Football: Defensive position grades vs. Clemson

Linebackers

It was going to be a group effort to try and contain the Clemson offense, and the linebackers did their part last night.

The unit as a whole were instrumental in keeping the Clemson run game at bay. Aided by the play of the defensive line as previously mentioned, they found their way to the ball all night long, registering 4.5 tackles for loss.

Superstar Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, who recorded nine tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss, shined in the brightest moment of the season thus far. His second quarter fumble recovery returned for a touchdown and forced fumble on the ensuing possession led to ten quick points and flipped the momentum of the game heading into halftime.

Shayne Simon also had a breakout game, coming up big in both the run and pass game. He racked up four tackles, a tackle for loss, and two pass breakups. Drew White was also active last night, tying JOK with a game-high nine total tackles and a tackle for loss.

The linebackers again did what they needed to do and did all they could to slow Clemson down. Their speed was evident last night, limiting Etienne in the passing game and keeping the Tigers’ tight ends in check – limiting them to just five receptions for 65 yards.

Going forward, this group is going to need to continue their elite level of play and using their speed and physicality to limit opposing offenses. The next two weeks will be great opportunities for this unit facing Boston College and North Carolina.

Grade: B+