Notre Dame football: Offensive Grades vs. Syracuse

Notre Dame football: Offensive Grades vs. Syracuse

Quarterback

With this win over Syracuse, Ian Book has the most wins as a starting quarterback in Notre Dame history with 30, and an overall record of 30-3. He will also finish his career without losing at home. That’s insane for a quarterback who has been criticized more than any other good quarterback in the country, and it deserves recognition.

As for the game against Syracuse, Book was fine but not outstanding.

Early in the game, Book was holding onto the ball too long, which did the ragged offensive line no favors. When the pressure got to him, Book didn’t create as well as he had in the past. That’s where a lot of the slow start came from, inaccurate passing under pressure. Luckily, Book’s legs were still working well to scramble for two touchdowns. He was also strong on the deep ball, where Javon McKinley dominated, catching all three of Book’s touchdown passes.

If there was somewhere in this game that Book simply wasn’t himself, it was in the turnover department. He fumbled a snap, which comes down to his relationship and chemistry with the center. This week it was Josh Lugg. He also threw an interception on a bad read, which was just his second interception the entire season.

Book finished the game 24/37 passing, with 285 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception. He also carried the ball eight times (with sacks counting as carries) for 53 yards and two touchdowns.

Grade= B