Notre Dame’s defensive metrics dominate college football

On By Pranco

Notre Dame’s lockdown unit never ends

Notre Dame’s defense, the engine behind the program led by Al Golden, continues to put up impressive numbers. The Irish now rank third in the country in defensive scoring, allowing just 11.4 PPG.

While the entire defense as a collective plays great ball, the pass defense in particular has been a lockdown unit for most of the second half of the season, even without starting Benjamin Morrison.

The pass defense ranks first nationally in pass efficiency and completion percentage allowed. The Irish also rank second in yards per attempt allowed and have allowed just six passing touchdowns all season, good for third in the nation.

The D is sixth in the nation in stopping third downs, No. 1 in takeaways and No. 3 in D scoring.

A good defense comes to play every week

College offenses can sometimes vary from week to week. Sometimes the weather affects how they perform. Sometimes a passing QB is just having a bad day or a defense puts together a great plan to stop key plays and players.

Still a good defense? Good defenses are usually good defenses every week. No matter the circumstances, matchup or circumstances. This bodes well for Notre Dame for the remaining two games on the schedule and for whatever happens in the postseason. This defense comes to play every week and will not be intimidated by anyone.

This Irish defense not only gives the team a great chance to win the remaining two regular season games, but also the playoff games. With this unit leading the way, with even a marginally competent offense, Notre Dame is a threat for a deep CFP run if they make the field.

For more Irish news and commentary, follow John on Twitter @alwaysirishINC, Always Irish on YouTube and/or your favorite audio podcast provider.

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