Notre Dame Football: 3 hot takes from nail-biting win over Virginia Tech

Oct 9, 2021; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish place kicker Jonathan Doerer (39) celebrates with offensive lineman Michael Carmody (68) and tight end George Takacs (85) after he makes the game winning field goal from the hold of punter Jay Bramblett (left) against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

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BLACKSBURG, VA – OCTOBER 09: Kevin Austin Jr. #4 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates with teammates after catching a pass for a two point conversion to tie the game against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the second half of the game at Lane Stadium on October 9, 2021 in Blacksburg, Virginia. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

3. Kevin Austin Jr. needs more targets

Kevin Austin Jr. is a playmaker and needs more touches. He only had three receptions but still had 70 yards on the night. You cannot forget about his great grab on the two-point conversion, either, to tie up the game at 29.

Austin Jr. needs more targets.

I know that is easier said than done, but when he touches the ball he usually is making noise for the Notre Dame offense. There is a lot to like in the talented wide receiver. He has the size, speed, and strength you want in your receivers.

Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees just needs to find some more ways to let Austin Jr. get the ball in his hands and let him do the rest. He may have only had three receptions against Virginia Tech but look how much it impacted the game overall.

The Irish can use more of him doing his part on the field.

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