Notre Dame Football: 5 reasons the Irish will beat North Carolina

2. Notre Dame’s linebackers will keep Surratt contained

As is the case with many college football quarterbacks, one of Chazz Surratt’s strengths is his ability to tuck and run if needed. Those yards will have to be hard-fought against an Irish linebacker corps that is among the best in the nation. In terms of experience, Notre Dame’s three starters, who also serve as team captains, are all seniors.

This group has also seen no shortage of action when it comes to defending dual-threat quarterbacks. The Irish have faced off against signal callers with dual-threat abilities such as Anthony Brown of Boston College, Brian Lewerke of Michigan State, and Gus Ragland of Miami of Ohio. While Ragland isn’t much of a runner, Brown and Lewerke weren’t walks in the park.

For example, Lewerke averaged 8.8 YPC heading into Michigan State’s matchup with the Irish. Notre Dame’s linebacker unit was able to contain him like no team had up to that point, limiting him to 6.2 YPC on nine attempts, not to mention the fumble Greer Martini forced from him on what was somewhat of a scramble.

The ball-hawk capabilities of both Drue Tranquill and Martini will keep Surratt honest as Nyles Morgan and junior Te’Von Coney limit the Tar Heels in the run game. Making North Carolina one-dimensional should be the first order of business for the Irish as neither Tar Heel quarterback has proved the ability to beat teams with their respective arms.