ACC football power rankings, Week 3: Clemson looks dominant yet again

2. Notre Dame Fighting Irish (1-0)

Despite Notre Dame’s 27-13 win against the Duke Blue Devils, the Irish were one team that was affected by an abbreviated offseason. They are talented both offensively and defensively, but they have so many new pieces to fit into their scheme. Duke was able to go up and down the field early in the game.

The Irish defense bent but did not break in this one. They surrendered just two field goals and the Blue Devils only sustained one other drive in the third quarter. The Irish had their moments in this game offensively. Sophomore running back ran for 112 yards and two touchdowns with 93 receiving yards as well. The passing game was efficient, but it was the rushing attack that took center stage for Notre Dame.

Defensively, the rush defense was outstanding allowing fewer than 3 yards per rush. Chase Brice was harassed and pressured by a very good Notre Dame pass rush. The secondary played well. Kyle Hamilton did a good job at deep safety and transfers Nick McCloud and Isaiah Pryor were solid in their debuts as well.