Clemson Football: An Early Look at the Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Clemson Football: An Early Look at Notre Dame with Slap the Sign

SAN DIEGO, CA - OCTOBER 27: Miles Boykin #81, with Nic Weishar #82 and Chase Claypool #83, of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrate after scoring a touchdown in the 1st half against the Navy Midshipmen at SDCCU Stadium on October 27, 2018 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Kent Horner/Getty Images) /

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ARLINGTON, TX – DECEMBER 29: A general view of the playing field before the 82nd Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic between USC and Ohio State at AT&T Stadium on December 29, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images) /

1. Tell me a little bit about Notre Dame. Strengths/Weaknesses?

Scott: In terms of personnel, the Irish don’t really have any weaknesses in its starting 22. Depth could be an issue, but you could also argue that depth has saved them a couple of times this season — particularly at running back and quarterback.

Offensively, you have one of the most accurate passers in the country, two huge receivers who can run, an solid slot receiver, a stable of tight ends with various skill sets, an always solid offensive line and a home run hitter at running back. On defense, you have nine guys who will play in the NFL within the next two years. Defensive tackle Jerry Tillery, linebacker Te’von Coney and cornerback Julian Love give the Irish an elite player at all three levels of the defense.

The biggest weakness would be the stubborness of the coaching staff when it comes to offensive scheme and play calls at times. They have a tendency to stick with one style of play (draws, screens) too long even when they aren’t working. This offense is too dynamic to lean on one or two styles of play.

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