Notre Dame Football: 3 keys to victory vs. Iowa State in Camping World Bowl
By Jacob Wilson
2. The defense must stand tall against unfamiliar opponent
If we’ve solidified one thing this season, it’s that Clark Lea is an exceptional defensive coordinator. While he’s had a few rough games not unlike any other great coordinator, Lea and his defense have offered a sense of stability over the course of two uncertain seasons.
Outside of the Michigan debacle, the Irish defense has allowed 20 or more points on only two occasions this season. The first was in a 30-27 win over USC, a game that featured an assortment of three-man fronts that pushed both Lea and the defense as a whole out of their comfort zones. The second came in a 52-20 thrashing of No. 21 Navy. While Virginia Tech scored 20 points, seven of those came via a defensive score.
A great source of Lea’s success has come from his ability to make second-half adjustments, something that has paid dividends in game after game for the Irish. These adjustments will certainly be necessary in a game that will feature two opponents who have yet to meet in either the regular or post season.
Iowa State has struggled at points this season, but their record isn’t necessarily an indication of their performance thus far. The Cyclones have had five games decided by three or fewer points this year, a testament to their ability to hold their own both in and outside their respective conference. Anything can happen in college football, so Lea’s defense will have to be on their toes regardless.