Just as we all had predicted, ND's third ranked matchup of the season comes against the Naval Academy. It is 1962, folks.
Navy's revamped offense will face its toughest test against Al Golden's boys, but Navy has been one of the best offenses in the country at generating explosive plays. This is not the same two wingbacks and a fullback option attack; they will operate quite a bit out of the shotgun, and they look to scheme up mismatches in the secondary to THROW the ball. Additionally, given the respect to the pass most teams have given them, it will prevent most teams from being able bring the safeties into the box to help with the option.
On the opposite side of the ball, Navy's defense hasn't been particularly good. They are ranked 82nd in passing yards allowed per game, 92nd in rushing yard allowed per game, and 92nd in total defense. Where they have been able to hang their hat defensively is turnovers, as they're tied for 14th in the nation at 14 total turnovers, with only two total turnovers offensively on the season (both INTs), good for 2nd in the nation in turnover margin at +12, behind only JMU. Simply stated: if ND takes care of the ball (trust your reads, Riley, no need to play hero ball Saturday), they SHOULD score early and often.
This one feels different than Navy match ups in the past, but if ND protects the football and settles in defensively early, it hopefully won't end up a different result.
My prediction: ND 38, Navy 17
