Notre Dame Football: 3 takeaways from win over Syracuse in Week 14

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Dec 5, 2020; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish wide receiver Javon McKinley (88) runs for a touchdown in the second quarter against the Syracuse Orange at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Ian Book-Javon McKinley connection is heating up

At the perfect time, the Ian Book to Javon McKinley connection is starting to really heat up. Earlier in the season, there were a ton of doubts about the offense, especially after Braden Lenzy went down with an injury. He was expected to take over for Chase Claypool as the team’s No. 1 receiver.

Who would step up without Lenzy?

For a few weeks, no one really knew, but it’s been McKinley over the past month-plus as he continues to be a consistent force in the passing game.

McKinley wasn’t a huge part of the Irish offense last year, but the senior has broken out this season and he’s been that sure-handed receiver for Book to toss it to. He had four straight games with at least five catches heading into Saturday’s game, including two 100-yard games, and then he added another against Syracuse.

The senior had seven catches for 111 yards and three touchdowns.

Book and McKinley’s chemistry is growing at the perfect time.

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