Notre Dame Football: 3 bold predictions vs. Vanderbilt in Week 3

2. Jafar Armstrong records three touchdowns

Wimbush’s play as of late has been concerning, but the Irish have seen some positives in other areas of the offense. We’ve seen some flashes out of wide receivers Miles Boykin, Chase Claypool, and Chris Finke, but some of the most encouraging signs have come from inexperienced running backs Jafar Armstrong and Tony Jones Jr.

Jones has served as an efficient runner so far, averaging 4.8 yards per carry on 22 attempts. The junior has totaled 106 yards and two scores this season, but has yet to contribute as a receiver. Armstrong, a sophomore, has recorded 101 yards and three touchdowns on the year, establishing himself as a significant presence in the Notre Dame backfield.

In contrast to Jones, Armstrong has also established himself as a capable receiver. With senior Dexter Williams’ starting job delayed due to a four game suspension, both Jones and Armstrong have been able to state their respective cases for a share of the workload in the wake of Williams’ return.

Armstrong has been a huge addition to the Irish this season, helping take some of the pressure off of the similarly inexperienced Jones Jr. As mentioned before, Vanderbilt hasn’t been particularly tested this season, so it wouldn’t be all too inconceivable for Armstrong to put up three scores on a defense that finished 116th in rushing touchdowns allowed last season.