(Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire)
Notre Dame is 6–0, and its defense has been dominant through the first six games. Saturday’s matchup with No. 8 BYU will put that unit to the test against an offense led by quarterback Bear Bachmeier, who can hurt defenses with both his arm and his legs.
Bachmeier has thrown for 1,033 yards, eight touchdowns and one interception through five games. He has also rushed for 239 yards and four touchdowns. Notre Dame will need to close running lanes and make sure he cannot turn pressure into extra yards.
The Irish have the talent to handle this matchup. Drayk Bowen and Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa will be two players to watch as Notre Dame looks to keep Bachmeier from taking over the game.
THE LINEBACKERS WILL BE KEY
Bowen and KVA can make a major difference against BYU. Bachmeier’s ability to escape pressure means their job will require patience as well as quick reactions.
Bowen needs to read Bachmeier, close running lanes and finish tackles when the quarterback takes off. But reacting too quickly can create another problem: leaving a receiver open behind him.
KVA’s expected return gives the Irish another linebacker to help control the middle of the field and limit the space Bachmeier has to work with.
With BYU running back LJ Martin sidelined, more pressure falls on Bachmeier to carry the offense. If Bowen and KVA can limit his rushing production, Notre Dame can make the Cougars work harder for their first downs.
THE DEFENSE NEEDS TO FINISH PLAYS
Notre Dame’s defensive line will have to pressure Bachmeier while staying disciplined. Getting into the backfield means little if the quarterback can escape and turn a potential loss into a positive gain.
The Irish also need to prevent explosive plays through the air. Leonard Moore’s availability remains a factor as he works back from a concussion. His coverage and playmaking ability would give Notre Dame a significant boost in the secondary.
Luke Talich and Adon Shuler will also have important roles in keeping the passing game in check. The secondary needs to stay with receivers when Bachmeier extends a play. A covered receiver can become an open target if a defender turns his attention toward the quarterback.
Notre Dame cannot afford to let one missed assignment turn into a big play. The Irish need to tackle well, limit yards after the catch and force BYU to sustain drives rather than giving the Cougars quick scoring opportunities.
A ROAD TEST FOR THE IRISH
Notre Dame has looked dominant on defense through six games. Saturday will be a chance to show that the unit can maintain that level against an undefeated top-10 opponent on the road.
Bachmeier’s numbers make him a serious challenge, but the Irish do not need to completely change their approach. They need the defensive line, linebackers and secondary to finish plays together.
Bowen and KVA will be central to that effort. If they can limit Bachmeier’s escape routes while the secondary stays in coverage, Notre Dame can put the pressure on the rest of BYU’s offense.
Against Bachmeier, getting him into trouble is only the beginning. The Irish have to keep him there.