Notre Dame football fans expect a big win over the Purdue Boilermakers this weekend. However, the Irish found out there would be at least one roadblock on the path to that big victory. Defensive back Leonard Moore may not be able to play.
Moore, a sophomore, limped to the sidelines with the help of two athletic trainers after suffering a right ankle injury early in the second quarter against Texas A&M. Freshman Mark Zackery IV subbed for Moore over the next three plays, including a 45-yard completion to the Irish 1-yard line with Zackery in coverage against KC Concepcion.
While Moore was able to return to the game and had a fantastic outing, the Notre Dame football team is now unclear on whether he'll suit up against Purdue. The situation could mean that the Irish will be out two defensive backs in the first half vs the Boilermakers.
Notre Dame football faces secondary depth test vs Purdue
Starting safety and team captain Adon Shuler will miss the first half after incurring a targeting ejection early in the fourth quarter against A&M. Redshirt freshman Tae Johnson replaced him at deep safety for much of the final quarter, finishing with a 58.3 PFF grade on a career-high 56 defensive snaps.
In all, three DBs could miss the game as starting nickelback DeVonta Smith (left ankle) is also listed as questionable. In most years, that wouldn't be an issue, considering Purdue has been steamrolled by the best of the best.
However, the new head coach, Barry Odom, has them playing better than they have in the last few years. The Notre Dame football team will need to figure out a way to win and win big, even without Leonard Moore, especially.