Notre Dame Football: 5 overreactions from ugly victory over Ball State

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3. Jalen Elliot and the secondary saved the season

How much of an overreaction can this be if the statement is slightly true? In essence, the Notre Dame faithful would be calling for Brian Kelly’s head if not for the excellent play of the junior safety.

He picked off two clutch passes that took the Fighting Irish defense out of dicey situations and helped Notre Dame avoid a humiliating loss.

The schedule doesn’t get easier as we head into October and November, so getting to a New Years Six Bowl would have been nearly impossible if the Fighting Irish fell to the Cardinals.

The secondary has played surprisingly well to start the season and is giving up a shade over 210 yards per game. Will the Commodores be able to move the chains against this unit? They boast a balanced offense that could keep the Notre Dame defense on its heels.