The final verdict on Notre Dame vs. BYU: Who actually has the edge?
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A battle of undefeated college football contenders square off in the primetime Week 7 matchup on Saturday night.
Notre Dame, ranked No. 2 in the poll, hits Provo for its first true road test of the season. No. 8 BYU hosts the Irish with College GameDay in town. The winner moves into better position in the College Football Playoff, and the loser takes one big step backwards.
Irish are an offensive powerhouse
Notre Dame has dominated so far, winning every game by double digits and allowing just 11 points per game. The Irish own the nation’s top-ranked total defense, surrendering only 241 yards per contest. But this offense has the firepower to win the game by itself.
Irish quarterback CJ Carr has been efficient, completing more than 70 percent of his passes with 16 touchdowns and one interception. The offense averages over 40 points and ranks among the national leaders in almost every efficiency metric.
Notre Dame’s rushing attack ranked among the best in the nation last season, but has dipped to No. 38 in yards per carry. And they haven’t played a run stop close to BYU’s caliber until now.
Cougars need more from the QB
BYU brings a physical style and an undefeated record built on defense and a balanced attack. The Cougars allow 13.4 points per game and have not surrendered more than 23 in any contest.
Dual-threat quarterback Bear Bachmeier has elevated his game, especially since star running back LJ Martin went down with an injury. BYU’s aerial attack ranks among college football’s least productive, and Bachmeier needs to replace its rushing output.
Bachmeier threw for over 300 yards and ran for more than 100 in last week’s win against Iowa State. BYU’s home crowd and elevation create a difficult environment, and the Cougars have covered the spread in every game this season.
What decides the game?
The key matchup sits in the trenches. Notre Dame’s front seven should limit BYU’s ground game without Martin and force Bachmeier into difficult throws.
The Irish secondary and linebackers have been stingy against both the run and play some of the country’s best pass defense.
On the other side, BYU’s defense will try to pressure Carr and force mistakes, something few teams have managed this year.
Notre Dame vs. BYU: Who wins?
Notre Dame has the deeper roster, superior talent, and proven ability to pull away in the second half. BYU can keep it competitive early and make the night uncomfortable, but sustaining drives against the nation’s best defense will prove difficult over four quarters.
The Irish should handle the road atmosphere and leave Provo still perfect.
The Big Lead Prediction: Notre Dame 31, BYU 17
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