Notre Dame-Michigan State: Poor Rushing Game Dooms Irish

Notre Dame shot itself in the foot multiple times Saturday, ultimately leading to their own demise. Coming off an emotional win against Michigan head coach Charlie Weis suspected emotionless play to be a problem, but he was hardly able to prevent it from handicapping Notre Dame’s offensive strategy. Costly turnovers, combined with an inept rushing attack due to uninspired offensive line play, led to a 23-7 victory for the Spartans. The turnovers left points on the board for the Irish and gifted points to Michigan State. The complete lack of a running game resulted in a decided disadvantage in ball control and a tired defense at the end of the contest. Even without the turnovers, Notre Dame did not deserve to win. It may have been in a closer game, but the time of possession heavily favored the Spartans. And in a close game, tired defenses are a liability. Michigan State head coach Mark Dantonio rode running back Javon Ringer’s 39 carries and 201 yards to victory, controlling the ... (link)