Notre Dame Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2017
By Jacob Wilson
Given this game isn’t played in a monsoon for the second time in a row, Notre Dame should have an easier time in this matchup than in their battle against the Wolfpack last season. In the midst of pouring rain and howling winds, both teams combined for ten fumbles in a game that was fittingly won on a blocked punt return for a touchdown. Fans and players alike deserve a sunnier contest when the Wolfpack roll into town this October.
Expect this to be Notre Dame’s revenge game for all that had gone wrong over the course of the season. The team felt they were robbed by having to play in such horrible conditions, and likely would have put up a greater fight against league officials had this game held more significant ramifications.
Wimbush should settle in over the course of this game, making few mistakes and functioning as more of a game manager as Chip Long sends more plays Adams’ way. Quarterback Ryan Finley will perform fairly well, but it will be Notre Dame’s defense that turns up the heat on Finley with the departure of their former star back Matt Dayes.
The ability of Notre Dame to focus on NC State’s aerial attack in the absence of a standout ground game should give them numerous chances to pull this one out.
Final: NC State 17, Notre Dame 28 (5-3, 2-1 ACC)