This is another game where I'm not a fan of either team.
It's a tough game to call. Allar is the better passer and overall QB, but Riley Leonard is a serious threat - - with his legs - - every time he touches the ball.
If Allar has to leave the game for any reason, Penn State will be in serious trouble. Their backup is a a true freshman.
Notre Dame is a bit banged up going in. Defensive lineman Rylie Mills suffered a season-ending injury against us. Another key piece on defense, DL Howard Cross, will play but is fighting through injuries. RB Jeremiyah Love may not be at full strength.
Both teams play very good defense (Notre Dame's game at USC being an anomaly, I believe, and nice job Tom Allen). The teams match up pretty evenly talent-wise. My call, then, will be based on coaching. Marcus Freeman is proving to be one of the best HCs in the game. Since ND's bad early-season loss to Northern Illinois, they've won 12 straight and have arguably been the best team in college football. Freeman is innovative and smart. James Franklin struggles to win the big game.
I'll go with the Catholics.
Notre Dame 27
Penn State 20
What do you think?
It's a tough game to call. Allar is the better passer and overall QB, but Riley Leonard is a serious threat - - with his legs - - every time he touches the ball.
If Allar has to leave the game for any reason, Penn State will be in serious trouble. Their backup is a a true freshman.
Notre Dame is a bit banged up going in. Defensive lineman Rylie Mills suffered a season-ending injury against us. Another key piece on defense, DL Howard Cross, will play but is fighting through injuries. RB Jeremiyah Love may not be at full strength.
Both teams play very good defense (Notre Dame's game at USC being an anomaly, I believe, and nice job Tom Allen). The teams match up pretty evenly talent-wise. My call, then, will be based on coaching. Marcus Freeman is proving to be one of the best HCs in the game. Since ND's bad early-season loss to Northern Illinois, they've won 12 straight and have arguably been the best team in college football. Freeman is innovative and smart. James Franklin struggles to win the big game.
I'll go with the Catholics.
Notre Dame 27
Penn State 20
What do you think?