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Notre Dame Football Defense Stats

Notre Dame Football Defense Stats

2 min read 25-11-2024
Notre Dame Football Defense Stats

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team has a rich history of producing talented defenses that can shut down even the most potent offenses. From the legendary Harry Oliver to the dominant units of the 1980s and 1990s, the Irish have always prided themselves on their defensive prowess. In this article, we'll delve into the Notre Dame football defense stats to see how the team has fared in recent years and what to expect from them in the future.

Overall Defense Stats

  • Total Defense: The Fighting Irish have consistently ranked among the top 25 teams in total defense over the past five years, with an average ranking of 17th.
  • Scoring Defense: Notre Dame has allowed an average of 21.4 points per game over the past five years, good for a ranking of 24th nationally.
  • Rushing Defense: The Irish have been stingy against the run, allowing an average of 123.5 yards per game over the past five years, ranking 20th nationally.

Pass Defense Stats

  • Pass Efficiency Defense: Notre Dame has ranked among the top 15 teams in pass efficiency defense over the past three years, with an average ranking of 12th.
  • Pass Yards Allowed: The Fighting Irish have allowed an average of 217.5 yards per game through the air over the past five years, ranking 30th nationally.
  • Interceptions: Notre Dame has recorded an average of 14 interceptions per season over the past five years, ranking 25th nationally.

Special Teams Stats

  • Kickoff Return Defense: The Irish have allowed an average of 20.5 yards per kickoff return over the past five years, ranking 15th nationally.
  • Punt Return Defense: Notre Dame has allowed an average of 7.5 yards per punt return over the past five years, ranking 25th nationally.

Trends and Projections

  • Improvement in the Secondary: After a season of struggles in the secondary, the Fighting Irish are expected to show significant improvement in 2023, with the return of key players and the addition of talented freshmen.
  • Increased Pressure Up Front: Notre Dame's defensive line is expected to be more aggressive in 2023, with a focus on generating more sacks and tackles for loss.
  • Continued Excellence Against the Run: The Irish are expected to continue their dominance against the run, with a stout defensive line and athletic linebackers.

In conclusion, the Notre Dame football defense stats paint a picture of a team that is solid in all aspects, with room for improvement in certain areas. With a talented crop of players and a reputation for producing top-notch defenses, the Fighting Irish are poised to make a run at the national championship in 2023.