Notre Dame football: 3 takeaways from blowout win at NC State

Lighting and rain fell from the sky, causing a delay at the beginning of the second quarter. After a lengthy delay, thunder and lighting fell all over Carter-Finley Stadium in the form of Audric Estime, Sam Hartman, and the Notre Dame football offensive line. The lack of explosive plays is one knock on the Irish offense through the years.

The Irish had plays of 80, 65, 45, and 40 yards against what was supposed to be one of the better defenses in the ACC. The explosive plays came from the wide receivers, tight ends, and running backs. Notre Dame could be dangerous if they can consistently add explosives to a punishing rushing attack.

North Carolina State is still trying to find its way with new offensive coordinator Robert Anae, transfer quarterback Brennan Armstrong, and the wide receivers. What’s surprising about the Wolfpack offense is its inability to run the football. NC State ran for just 84 yards on 30 carries.

Defensively, NC State struggled along the line of scrimmage against Notre Dame’s offensive line. They were consistently beaten at the point of attack, and Notre Dame blockers were always at the second level.

Here are some offensive and defensive takeaways and what’s next for both teams.