GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: The USC front seven was badly pushed off the ball by UCLA blockers last week, resulting in Bruins RB Joshua Kelley tallying 289 yards rushing. Not only must the USC defense regroup for explosive RB Dexter Williams, the Trojans are also contending with a dual-threat QB in Ian Book.
What’s more, the Notre Dame OL may be the most talented USC sees in 2018. Coach Clay Helton said the miscues at UCLA were the result of poor gap integrity; solving this issue while also addressing the physicality of the Notre Dame front five will be key to slowing the multifaceted Fighting Irish offense.
DRAFT SLANT
–ILB Cameron Smith, hindered due to a hip injury for much of the middle part of his senior season, played his best game of 2018 in the loss at UCLA. Smith made 10 tackles, including contributing to a tackle for loss. Ranked No. 10 among interior linebackers in the 2019 draft class per NFLDraftScout.com, Saturday may be Smith’s last opportunity to make an impression before the Combine.
ROSTER REPORT:
–S Marvell Tell III sustained an ankle injury at UCLA and will be evaluated this week to determine his availability for Notre Dame.
–RB Aca’Cedric Ware played last week, but was limited to six carries as a result of a shoulder injury.
–OL Alijah Vera-Tucker suffered an MCL injury and is doubtful for this week.
–LB Levi Jones is no longer on the roster as of last Wednesday.
–TE Josh Falo injured his knee against UCLA. His status for Saturday is undetermined.
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