Notre Dame Football: 3 hot takes from win over Boston College in Week 11

1. This is Brian Kelly’s most complete team yet

Back when Notre Dame made the national title game against Alabama, the Irish were known for their defense. Back in 2018 when Notre Dame made its first College Football Playoff, it was also known more for defense but the offense was gaining some steam.

This season, Clark Lea’s defense has been playing very well, allowing a total of 304 yards and 16.6 points per game. The secondary allows over 200 yards per game through the air, but the run-stopping ability of this unit is elite as teams are averaging just 85 yards on the ground per game. This defense isn’t the best in the nation, but it’s top-tier, ranked No. 12 in total yards.

Offensively, Notre Dame has its best rushing attack in the Brian Kelly era, averaging 233.5 yards per game on the ground and an improving passing attack, averaging just under 230. Notre Dame is 23rd in the nation in total yards and 17th in rushing.

This is a complete team with stars on both sides of the ball. Kelly may just have his best team since he got to town in 2010.