First up on the 2020 docket for Notre Dame is Duke. The Blue Devils didn’t give Notre Dame much of a test last November, losing 38-7 at home, and I expect another blowout to start this season, this time in South Bend.
Chase Brice will be leading the offense, however, and that’s only going to pay dividends for the Blue Devils while the defense loses most of its 4-2 front.
Final Score: Duke 13, Notre Dame 38 (1-0, 1-0 ACC)
Notre Dame gets its only “non-conference” game of the season in Week 2 against South Florida and the Bulls are led by former Clemson co-offensive coordinator Jeff Scott. Hopes are high in Tampa, but it’s going to take a while for them to get back to the Willie Taggart days.
The Bulls went 4-8 a year ago with just one win in AAC play and things might be just as ugly this time around with a sketchy quarterback situation and a brand new backfield. The secondary might give the Irish some fits as it ranked No. 15 against the pass last year, but Ian Book’s legs will make the difference here.
Final Score: USF 10, Notre Dame 35 (2-0)