Notre Dame Football: Five must-see Fighting Irish games in 2015

Dec 31, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets quarterback Justin Thomas (5) reacts in the end zone after scoring against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the second half of the Orange Bowl game at Sun Life Stadium. Georgia Tech defeated the Bulldogs 49-34. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports

4. Georgia Tech – Sept. 19

Georgia Tech was a surprise team last year and returns some key pieces this year, including quarterback Justin Thomas. Thomas is a great fit for the offense and he should get even better this year. The team relies little on a passing game that is inconsistent, but the fact is that he can move the offense down the field and score. While Notre Dame has a strong defense, Thomas will need to (and I think he will) have a great game, especially through the air.

If Georgia Tech manages to startle Notre Dame by relying on the passing game more than usual, and if the passing attack can deliver points, Georgia Tech has a nice chance. Georgia Tech was 53rd in points allowed in 2014 and returns eight starters on the defense, including all of its defensive backfield. If Georgia Tech finds a way to use their strengths to get turnovers, they might be able to grab the lead and keep it.

Georgia Tech had a lot of close games last year. All three losses were within a touchdown (Duke 31-25, UNC 48-43, FSU 37-35). The Yellow-Jackets also pulled off a number of close wins, including one at Georgia, so this team should have a similar capacity to pull off some big upsets this year, including against Notre Dame.

Next: Clemson