Notre Dame Football: Report card for tough win vs. Louisville in Week 1

Offense

The offense had some success, but there were still some issues the Fighting Irish faced. The running game worked early, but they seemed stubborn with how much they relied on the passing game.

Quarterback: B-

Ian Book is simply going to have to play better if Notre Dame wants to achieve all its goals this season. He made a few nice plays with his legs, but he needs to be more careful with the ball. For how talented the receivers are, they need to be able to make more plays through the air. He responded when he needed to, but he shouldn’t have to respond to his own mistakes that often.

Running Backs: A-

The running game was incredibly effective against Louisville. One concern for Notre Dame football this year was whether or not they would be able to replace Dexter Williams, but they appear to be in good hands. If anything, Notre Dame should have called more run plays in this one. When they had opportunities, they made the best of them.

Receivers/Tight Ends: A-

The receivers did what they could, but there were only so many pass attempts. They didn’t have a small number of opportunities because they were unable to get open. Book just struggled to distribute the ball. The receiving corps is talented, and everyone is high on Chase Claypool. At the end of the day, they made the most of their limited opportunities on the field. Their results improved late in the game as they tried to kill clock, and so did Claypool’s play.

Offensive Line: C+

The offensive line struggled early despite the success in the running game. It just looked like Book was rushed too often. Like the other units on the field, it got better throughout the game, but progress must happen before they play against Georgia’s defense.