Notre Dame’s upcoming Orange Bowl clash against Penn State in the College Football Playoff semifinals presents a formidable challenge. To secure a victory and advance to the National Championship, the Fighting Irish should focus on three critical areas:
1. Protecting the Football and Sustaining Drives: Facing Penn State’s formidable defense, Notre Dame’s offense must prioritize ball security to prevent turnovers that could shift momentum. Quarterback Riley Leonard, known for his dual-threat capabilities, should lead methodical drives to control the game’s tempo and keep Penn State’s offense off the field.
2. Containing Tight End Tyler Warren: Penn State’s offense heavily relies on tight end Tyler Warren, who has amassed 98 catches for 1,158 yards and eight touchdowns this season. Notre Dame’s defense, coordinated by Al Golden—a Penn State alumnus—must devise strategies to limit Warren’s impact, potentially assigning a dedicated defender to shadow him throughout the game.
3. Leveraging Special Teams Excellence: Special teams have been a significant asset for Notre Dame this season, contributing to their success in critical moments. Maintaining aggressive and effective special teams play can provide advantageous field positions and potential game-changing plays, such as pivotal returns or crucial field goals.
By concentrating on these key areas—ball security and sustained offensive drives, neutralizing Penn State’s primary receiving threat, and capitalizing on special teams—Notre Dame can enhance their prospects of triumphing in the Orange Bowl and progressing to the National Championship game.