Defense-
My only worry on the defensive side of the ball is mobile QB's + our edges. Remember what the few mobile QB's we faced did to our edges by rolling out and throwing the 7 yard out/crossing pattern to receivers? It was an automatic 3rd down conversion.
But, our defense has grown, and gotten a TON better since those days. Shembo's athleticism is going to be needed.
We are solid against the run, and any pass over 15+ yards. With that being said, that where I see UM attacking and centering it's game plan. Jacory throws a ton of bad balls when he tries to go deeper then 15 yards. UM will try to roll him out, and win methodically. Stop that agenda, and ND wins. ND needs to get a couple turnovers and get some points off them, undisciplined teams unravel when hit with adversity. UM will spiral out of control.
Offensively-
I don't really know what to think. UM will most likely try to mirror USC's second half defense, and line up in a zone/man zone to try and confuse Tommy Rees by hiding in his throwing lanes. I expect BK knows this, and has a plan being put into place. UM gave up a fair amount of points this year, so they are beatable, but very athletic drawing comparisons to SC's defense. The keys are obviously to run the ball effectively with Cierre Wood and Robert Hughes. Again, have Tommy manage the game, not have him win the game. Also, keep the turnovers below 2, ND wont survive 4 turnovers again. I like ND's chances if they can keep the game tight into the 4th quarter. Undisciplined teams unravel in stressful situations like having to win a game in the 4th quarter.
Team-
Watchout for helmets used as medieval weapons. And keep your left hand up to protect your blind side from the right cross.
ND- 30 (ND holding it together in the fourth quarter to get a late TD to go up 14)
UM-16 (Falling apart midway in the third with penalties, and turnovers)
