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Kirk Herbstreit identifies potential Ohio State weakness vs. Notre Dame
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Kirk Herbstreit isn’t sure about Ohio State’s pass rush as it prepares for a big test in Week 4 vs. No. 9 Notre Dame.
Herbstreit said Ohio State’s defensive ends haven’t proven enough to this point in the season. While analyzing the game on College GameDay on Saturday morning, Herbstreit said the matchup between Ohio State’s defensive front and Notre Dame’s offensive line could decide the game.
“One thing that they’ve really not been able to do is get after the quarterback,” Herbstreit said. “Now they’re playing this game on the road. Can their defensive ends apply pressure and be able to be a defense that can be disruptive? Or do they have to blitz? The front 4 of Ohio State against that offensive line for Notre Dame, I think will go a long way toward dictating the outcome.”
Ohio State’s defense has managed to record just 5 sacks so far this season. No Buckeye has recorded more than 1 sack to this point in 2023.
That could prove to be an issue going up against Sam Hartman and Notre Dame’s vaunted offensive line. Hartman is widely regarded as one of the top passers in the country, especially when he has time to break down a defense.
Notre Dame’s offensive line is anchored by left tackle Joe Alt, who is considered to be one of the top tackle prospects in the country for the 2024 NFL Draft. He’s in his 3rd season as Notre Dame’s starter.
Notre Dame has allowed 4 sacks so far this season.
Spenser is the news manager at Saturday Road and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.