How can the Fighting Irish prevail without starting quarterback Malik Zaire?
1. Win on First and Second Down. Notre Dame's defense will have their hands full trying to stop Georgia Tech's triple option attack, but forcing the Yellow Jackets into 3rd and long would make things easier. Getting as many stops (2 yards or fewer) as possible will allow the Irish to force the Yellow Jackets into obvious passing situations. If Georgia Tech keeps seeing 2nd or 3rd and short, then Notre Dame's secondary could be susceptible to deep passes via the play fake.
2. Sustain Long Drives. When you face a triple option team, your defense will be gassed. Because of that, the Irish offense needs to control the line of scrimmage and withstand longer scoring drives in order to give the defense a breather.
3. Step Up in Competition. Georgia Tech has played Alcorn State and Tulane, while the Irish have faced tougher opponents in Texas and Virginia. Because of this, I'm not sure Georgia Tech will be ready for the speed, athleticism, and talent that the Irish have on both sides of the ball.
I'm confident in Notre Dame's ability to score points even without Zaire under center. The offensive line and skill players that surround DeShone Kizer will be enough for the Irish to reach the 30s. On defense, Notre Dame's front seven is a strength and I believe Jaylon Smith will have a monster day. If the secondary stays disciplined enough to stay on their men, then the Irish defense should play well enough to win. Barely.
Prediction: Notre Dame 34, Georgia Tech 31
-Eric Tichelbaut
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