Notre Dame Football: 3 keys to victory vs. Virginia Tech in Week 10
By Jacob Wilson
3. The Irish must have an effective run game
Heading into the Michigan game, it was very clear that the Irish would need to establish an effective running game to take the pressure off of quarterback Ian Book. Book, who has been a shell of his 2018 self this season, has relied heavily on the run game to open things up through the air.
In what is painting itself as quite an obvious trend, the Irish have rushed for less than 50 yards in both of their losses this season. In contrast, running back Tony Jones Jr. put up 176 rushing yards himself in Notre Dame’s win over USC. However, Jones and Co. were forced to watch from the sidelines as the Wolverines hung over 300 rushing yards on an outmatched Irish defense.
It would be helpful if Book could piece it together and keep defenses honest, but Saturday’s loss marked the fourth game this season in which he has thrown for less than 200 yards. As a result, the Irish running game will be responsible for making the turnaround if the Irish hope to avoid a third loss against Virginia Tech.
The Hokies fall in the middle of the pack when it comes to defending the run, leaving Notre Dame’s run game with little excuse if they come out flat again. Running the ball efficiently will always be a component of a great offense, something the Irish have found themselves far from in big games this season. The pressure is off against Virginia Tech, so look for the Irish run game to be on.