When the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame take on the Yellow Jackets of Georgia Tech on Saturday, they’ll face one of the most potent running attacks in the country. Led by junior running back Jahmyr Gibbs, Georgia Tech averages over 250 rushing yards per game, good for third in the ACC. The Yellow Jackets have also rushed for 20 touchdowns this season, tied for fourth in the nation.
Notre Dame’s defense has been solid against the run this season, allowing just 96.7 rushing yards per game. But they’ll face their toughest test yet against Georgia Tech’s vaunted ground attack.
The key to Notre Dame’s success against the run will be their defensive line. The Irish have one of the best pass-rushing units in the country, but they’ll need to generate pressure on Georgia Tech quarterback Jeff Sims to force him into mistakes. If Notre Dame can get Sims off his rhythm, they’ll have a much better chance of slowing down the Yellow Jackets’ running game.
Georgia Tech’s offensive line is one of the most experienced units in the country. The Yellow Jackets have four returning starters up front, including All-ACC performer Jordan Williams. This group is very good at creating holes for the running game, and they’ll be a challenge for Notre Dame’s defensive front.
The Yellow Jackets also have a deep running back group. In addition to Gibbs, Georgia Tech has talented sophomore Hassan Hall and freshman Dontae Smith. This trio gives Georgia Tech a lot of options in the running game, and it makes them very difficult to defend.
This is a tough matchup for Notre Dame. Georgia Tech has one of the best running attacks in the country, and Notre Dame’s defense has not yet faced a challenge like this. However, Notre Dame’s defense is very good, and they’ll be motivated to prove themselves against the Yellow Jackets. I think Notre Dame will be able to slow down Georgia Tech’s running game enough to win the game, but it will be a close one.
