Notre Dame Football: 3 bold predictions vs. USC in Week 8

2. Wimbush throws for over 250 passing yards

While quarterback Brandon Wimbush’s career high comes in at only 210 yards (against Georgia of all teams), throwing for 250 against USC is no small feat. While the Trojans currently rank 91st in average passing yards allowed, their run defense hasn’t been fantastic either. This could very well be another case of head coach Brian Kelly differing to the run despite ample passing opportunity.

Kelly has only been able to work on Wimbush’s pass game in a limited capacity this year, and there’s not a good chance he loosens the leash against the 11th ranked Trojans. We’re likely due for another dose of Wimbush and Adams on the ground, a pairing that has been absolutely dominant this season.

However, in the case that the Irish are somehow shut down on the ground, it would be up to Wimbush to beat the Trojans with his arm. While that scenario doesn’t seem particularly inviting from the perspective of the Irish, there would still be a significant uptick in production from Wimbush through the air.

It will be in the best interest of the Irish to avoid that situation, but there may be little they can do to control it. Wimbush’s best passing day game against Georgia, a game that saw him throw for 210 yards on 40 attempts. If the junior is awarded another 40 attempt game against the Trojans, don’t be surprised to see him turn it into over 250 yards.