Notre Dame Football: 3 bold predictions for huge Syracuse battle
By Jacob Wilson
3. Book throws for 400 yards
Book has yet to throw for 400 yards in a Notre Dame uniform, but he has flirted with such numbers at times. Since being announced the starting quarterback following Wimbush’s Week 3 struggle vs. Vanderbilt, Book has thrown for over 300 yards three times. Book’s highest passing total caps out at 343 yards, but head coach Brian Kelly has yet to truly turn his quarterback loose.
Much of this has to do with the fact that Book’s 2018 starting debut came only one week prior to Dexter Williams’ first week back from suspension, forcing offensive coordinator Chip Long to share the wealth along the offense. However, that could change given the propensity for a shootout in the Irish’s upcoming matchup.
As it stands right now, Notre Dame averages almost 13 more rushes than passes per game. Syracuse holds similar numbers, averaging just under 10 more running plays than passing plays per game. It will be interesting to see whether or not these trends hold up with the potential for a pass-heavy game flow.
Given how the majority of their games have progressed, the Orange have been pretty generous through the air, allowing over 260 passing yards per game. If the Irish can’t get the running game going early, and that’s a big if, Book could be in line to have a career game this weekend.