Notre Dame Football: 5 reasons the Irish will beat Michigan in Week 1

3. Secondary will come up with key interceptions

As much as there is talk about the Notre Dame linebacking corps, the secondary has one of the best cornerbacks in the country in Julian Love.

Love wasn’t afraid to mix it up last year as he picked up 68 tackles but essentially cut the field in half by finishing with 20 passes broken up.

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Does that mean Shea Patterson won’t test the secondary and try to get a deep shot in against Love? No, of course he will, but if they routinely try to go after Love they will be playing with fire.

When you look at the other side of the field Troy Pride will be tested but don’t let his lack of stats fool you. If given the opportunity he can also cause problems for the passing game and I expect both cornerbacks to play very well.

When you add safety Jalen Elliot into the mix his experience will be valuable in the late stages of the game.

I don’t see how Patterson will be able to make the right plays in key moments. He is learning a new system at full game speed again such a talented defense. That’s why I think the turnovers will be the difference in the Notre Dame victory.

2. Brandon Wimbush will do damage with his legs

When you look at Notre Dame’s receiving corps last season you would think that there was not a lot of talent at the position based on their statistical numbers. The main issue was inaccuracy at quarterback.

Winbush completed less than 50% of his passes and will have to be a much-improved passer for Notre Dame to have any shot at the college football playoff. This game, however, will be won by his ability to run the football.

Michigan has a very good defensive line but Winbush racked up 14 touchdowns on the ground and averaged almost 6 yards per carry in 2017. Even if the Wolverines play smart in the secondary their linebackers will still have to keep an eye on Winbush as he can take off in a hurry.

If he can make two or three big runs to convert a long down the Fighting Irish will be able to set themselves up for a good victory over one of their main rivals.