Notre Dame has a dangerous weakness that will be exposed as the season progresses

On By Pranco

Does Notre Dame have a kicking problem?

During Notre Dame’s final month of play, the team outscored opponents 169-44, earning lopsided wins in every game. Considering that these games weren’t close, it’s easy to overlook some of the finer details that would be critical in tighter matchups.

Starting placekicker Mitch Jeter has been dealing with a hip problem all the time. His last field goal attempt came all the way back in September against Louisville. As a result of Jeter still being stymied – literally – both Zak Yoakam and Marcello Diomede attempted field goals against Virginia. Both missed, and by wide margins.

Honestly, since Week 2, this team has fought back into CFP contention better than anyone could have predicted. With all due respect, they’ve come way too far to let kicking issues derail their chances for the rest of the regular season or the playoffs. This problem needs to be resolved quickly.

Does this kicking issue change the way Denbrock will call the foul?

If Notre Dame lacks confidence in the kicking game for the remainder of the season, how will Mike Denbrock adjust the way he thinks about the Irish offense’s order?

Denbrock is known for his boldness and may well decide that once Notre Dame crosses a certain yard line it is four down territory and will play accordingly with the plan to take four offensive plays to gain a first down to get.

This issue isn’t that big of a deal until it is a big deal. Notre Dame needs to know exactly what they have and whether or not they can rely on this key position heading into the final two games and hopefully the CFP Tournament.

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