GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Notre Dame run defense vs. Syracuse rushing attack. The Orange has rushed for 32 touchdowns this season — exactly twice as many as they rushed for in all of 2017. Notre Dame cannot allow Syracuse to feel comfortable with its rushing game and chew up valuable time of possession.
DRAFT SLANT: TE Alize Mack might not have record-breaking statistics, but he has the body type and ability to play tight end on Sundays. Mack has emerged this season as a reliable pass catcher, hauling in six passes in three separate games. He is coming off a two-touchdown performance last week against Florida State.
ROSTER REPORT:
–DB Julian Love is expected to be available against Syracuse after leaving early a week ago because of an undisclosed injury. Love could have returned to the field but did not need to with the score out of hand, Fighting Irish coach Brian Kelly told reporters this week.
–LB Drue Tranquill is expected to play despite dealing with hand and leg injuries throughout the season.
–OL Trevor Ruhland did not play last week because of a strained elbow, and his status is uncertain for this weekend against Syracuse.
