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

1. The Irish force four turnovers

Notre Dame finished a dismal 2016 season ranked outside the top 100 in opponent turnovers per game. However, the addition of former Wake Forest defensive coordinator Mike Elko has completely revamped this defense, spurring them to a current 9th overall ranking in the same category.

While USC’s defense has been just as advantageous in the turnover battle, their offense has failed to back them up. Despite the Trojan defense averaging over two turnovers per game, the team’s turnover margin sits at a measly zero. On the other hand, Notre Dame’s offense has taken good care of the ball, keeping their margin at plus-seven.

Much of USC’s turnover problem can be traced to quarterback Sam Darnold’s inability to play mistake-free football. After throwing 31 touchdowns to only nine interceptions last season, the sophomore is now on pace to double his interception total from last year. This could be a long game for the Trojans should the Irish maintain their success on the turnover front.

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Considering Darnold’s struggles with keeping the ball out of the hands of his opponents, a four turnover game isn’t completely out of the question. The Irish have yet to play a quarterback of Darnold’s caliber, but a tendency to turn the ball over could lead to many headaches for head coach Clay Helton.