Notre Dame Football: 3 bold predictions vs. NC State in Week 9
By Jacob Wilson
1. Neither team records a turnover
One of the keys for the Irish this season has been their success in the turnover battle. However, they will enter this week’s matchup behind the Wolfpack in the turnovers lost category. NC State currently leads the nation with only three turnovers, with the Irish following closely behind with only seven.
In fact, NC State enters Week 9 as the only team without an interception. This could be an issue for the Irish who have fed on opponent turnovers to this point. However, the Irish have been significantly better at forcing turnovers than the Wolfpack, registering 17 turnovers to NC State’s 11. Additionally, the Irish have turned the ball over only twice over the last four weeks.
With both teams taking such good care of the football, there’s a good chance that this game goes without a turnover. Despite the success of both teams regarding turnovers, there will probably be some extra practice time dedicated to protecting the football given the stakes of Saturday’s game. With both teams completely buying in, don’t be surprised to see a game of punts this weekend.
Next: NFL Mock Draft 2018: First round after Week 8
Despite the lack of history between the two programs, the competitive nature that comes along with two one-loss teams facing off late in the season will likely lead to one of the best games of the 2017 season. Don’t be surprised if this one comes down to a mere field goal or two.