Notre Dame football at Virginia: 3 things to watch in Week 11

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CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – DECEMBER 05: Brennan Armstrong #5 of the Virginia Cavaliers throws a pass in the first half during a game against the Boston College Eagles at Scott Stadium on December 5, 2020, in Charlottesville, Virginia. (Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images) /

Notre Dame football at Virginia: 3 things to watch

Stopping the passing attack

The biggest storyline in this game in terms of the Cavaliers is whether or not Brennan Armstrong is going to be available for them. Head coach Bronco Mendenhall has stated that he likely will not have that decision until game day, which is either gamesmanship or the fact that Armstrong is legitimately hurt.

In his presser early this week, Mendenhall did say that he expected Armstrong to be his quarterback, which could prove to be a tall task for the Irish. Armstrong is one of the more prolific quarterbacks in the country this season, as he leads the nation in total offense, and already has nearly 35 touchdowns on the year.

Nov 6, 2021; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Navy Midshipmen running back Carlinos Acie (25) is tackled by Notre Dame Fighting Irish safety DJ Brown (2) in the first quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

Notre Dame football: 2021 Week 10 offensive grades vs. Navy

The Notre Dame football team moved to 8-1 on the season with a 34-6 victory over the Navy Midshipmen. Here are the grades for the defense.

Overall, the Irish should be able to come out of this one on top, as they have more talent, and are a more well-balanced team. However, they are going on the road for the first time since the Virginia Tech game, and did start off slow against Navy, something they cannot afford to do in this one, especially if Armstrong plays.

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