Eric Hansen: Welcome to the Thanksgiving/Black Friday/USC Week rendition of Notre Dame Football Live Chat.
Some quick programming notes:
► If you missed the last episode of our aspiring-to-be-viral Notre Dame Football YouTube show, Football Never Sleeps, it keeps its shelf life long after the live presentation. We had to shift to Tuesday night this week, but we’ll be back in our normal Monday at 7 ET time slot next week. Remember, if you miss the live show, you can catch up anytime on YouTube. Coming up right after the USC game our YouTube channel is our live postgame show with former offensive lineman Bob Morton and me — Inside The eNDzone. And later Saturday night/Sunday morning we’ll have our Postgame Takeaways show posted, with Tyler James and more of me. So, make us part of your Sunday morning, too.
► The Inside ND Sports Podcast is already out for this week. Tyler James and I reached out to WSBT Sports Director Pete Byrne to spend some time with us this week. Byrne discussed at which points in the season after the Northern Illinois loss that he felt Notre Dame could and would end up in a position to play in the College Football Playoff, the growth of quarterback Riley Leonard and head coach Marcus Freeman, how good running back Jeremiyah Love has been, the improvement on ND's offensive line, the most impressive part of ND's defense, the trajectory of USC's program, his expectations for what a playoff game in Notre Dame Stadium would be like and more. The podcast can be listened to via SoundCloud or on your preferred podcast platform including: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Podbean and Pocket Casts.
Related Content
► Film Analysis: How Notre Dame cleared path for big runs against Army
► CFP selection committee tracking Penn State-Notre Dame seeding debate
► Notebook: What Freeman saw in Notre Dame QB Leonard to keep the faith
► Notre Dame football depth chart projection for matchup with USC
► Coordinator Transcripts | Offense: Mike Denbrock | Defense: Al Golden
► Finally, at WSBT Sports Radio 96.1, we’re rolling into Saturday rivalry game with USC. Darin Pritchett and I are together this week on Tuesday and Wednesday on Weekday SportsBeat (96.1 FM, 960 AM, live streaming at wsbtradio.com). The weekday shows run from 5-6 p.m. ET. I’m also part of the Gameday SportsBeat crew, and the pregame show that runs on Saturdays before every game. You can download all episodes, including the pregame shows, as podcasts.
As far as this week's chat …
Please include your NAME and HOMETOWN along with your question. Exclamation points are appreciated but not mandatory.
Here are the rules …
Eric Hansen: We've rescinded the no drinking rule again. Thanks for not making me regret it. It only applies to me, but I am allowed caffeine.
OK off we go ...
Roger from Peoria: Eric: Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. Not many things can top Notre Dame Football but FAMILY is way at the top! I am thrilled with the Irish coaching staff. Rumors suggest Marcus may be courted by the NFL. My concern with Marcus has always been when the OSU job opens, but I would like to think, perhaps just being hopeful, that he might choose to stay with the Irish simply because Notre Dame is "different". Your thoughts? No head coaching position is a lifetime commitment, nor is any Coordinator or other Assistant position, but right now I view the staff as TOP-NOTCH. I did see a report Al Golden did not accompany the team on the flight to New York due to a "personal" matter. Any speculation, other than mine, that "personal" matter may have been a personnel matter with a Sunday playing team? Unrelated, if the Irish host a playoff game, what opponent would you like to see venture to South Bend for a late December game? Brrrrr!!! GO IRISH!!
Eric Hansen: Happy Thanksgiving Roger from Peoria. FAMILY or FamiLEE is way on top for me too. ... Let's talk about Marcus Freeman first. It is interesting that a story about who MIGHT make a good NFL head coach among coaches under 40 turned into rumors that Marcus was leaving the Irish. Let me talk more generically about Marcus' longevity at Notre Dame -- and remember on Sept. 7, there were lots of folks who wondered about the longevity for other reasons. Whatever might come Marcus Freeman's way, there's a couple of things to keep in mind. As a coach, you situation can change over time. Lately, it's been evolving in favor of Marcus Freeman getting incredible support from the administration and a new AD in Pete Bevacqua. That's huge.
One thing really struck me though is how much Marcus Freeman values his family's future when he makes career decisions. When Brian Kelly left to go to LSU, Marcus had a guaranteed big paycheck in Baton Rouge to follow BK there. Or he could gamble that ND might take a chance on him to be the head coach. When I spoke with Marcus' wife, Joanna, it really shed some light on their dynamics. Marcus' kids (six of them) are almost the exact same ages as my six grandkids, so this really hits home with me.
They also made a choice in January of 2021, ironically, between ND and LSU with a couple of different coordinator jobs. Here's what Joanna had to say:
“There are times in life that you don’t always know that you’re making the right choice as much as you know when you’re making the wrong choice.
“We didn’t get on the plane leaving South Bend and look at each other and go, ‘Yes, this is it.’ We thought about it all week. We prayed about it all week. We talked to our kids. And at the end of that week, we looked at each other and we had to make a decision.
“We said, when you go to Notre Dame, you are never going to make the wrong choice. The tradition, the history, the stability, the ability to raise your children in a place that’s safe and secure.
“I think about my kids. I think about where are we going to be raising these kids? Marcus thinks about all the professional stuff, and I do too. But for the most part, I have six pairs of eyes looking at me and where they’re going to go to school and where they’re going to feel secure.
“And so Notre Dame at the end of that week, we knew — no matter what happens — this will not be the wrong choice for our family."
Eric Hansen: As far as the Al Golden stuff, that's not something we reported, so I'm not going to go down that rabbit hole. He just signed an extension in November. He will get courted during that extension and maybe he'll leave, but the timing this year would seem off. And if he does, Mike Mickens is waiting in the wings. But given Al Golden wouldn't ever interview with ND in person when the Cincinnati Bengals were on their Super Bowl run, it would be really out of character for him to be messing with that now. ... As far as playoff opponent, I'd like to see Kent State, but at 0-for-the-season I don't think they'll make the field.
Tom from Alpharetta, GA: I've heard Marcus Freeman mention Tyler Buchner's contribution to the practice team. What exactly is his status and how much has he contributed as a QB this year?
Eric Hansen: Hi Tom. Tyler Buchner transferred back to Notre Dame from Alabama last January to get his degree (which he did last May) and play on the No. 1 men's lacrosse team (which he did. The short version from there is he asked to walk on to the football team, which he did. And he was given the chance to play wide receiver. But he was willing to help the team in any way he can. So when ND played Navy and Army this year, Buchner was the scout-team quarterback. And I've written about some of his other contributions before, so I'll stay concise here.
Manny from San Pedro: Eric!!!!!!! Happy Turkey day!!!! I’ll lob a softball…. What is your go to pie for Thanksgiving? Also. Apple pie with whip cream or warmed up with ice cream?
Eric Hansen: Manny!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wow, that is a softball question. I don't have a go-to pie, because I don't get to pick the menu. But c'mon. Is there a bad choice? For part 2, easy choice, warmed up with ice cream!
JOIN THE CONVERSATION ON THE INSIDER LOUNGE MESSAGE BOARD
Marie from Atlanta: Hi Eric, I hope you’re having a great week. Nice win for the Irish on Saturday night. What can you tell us about Maiava the QB USC is now starting? What are his strengths and what are his weaknesses, and how do you think he’ll match up against the Notre Dame defense? What do we need to be most worried about from USC this weekend, are there any matchups that favor them? As always, thanks for hosting the chat and all the great insights.
Eric Hansen: Hi Marie. Happy Thanksgiving. I bet you are hoping Notre Dame makes a stop or two in Atlanta if the Irish make the playoff. ... Jayden Maiava is a redshirt sophomore, who was UNLV's starting QB last season, so he actually has more starting experience than the junior he replaced in Miller Moss. He's more mobile than Moss, but not truly a dual-threat. They've run him less in his two starts at USC than they did at UNLV, and there his high rushing game was 40 yards on 11 carries. Riley Leonard has a slightly better pass-efficiency rating than both of them. USC is pretty turnover-prone and doesn't force a lot of them either, so if they play a clean game, that could make them more competitive. They are the best net punting team in the nation, so they can flip field position. They have lots of skill at wide receiver. They're pretty good on third down on both sides of the ball and they're pretty good at protecting the QB. And it's USC and the rivalry is real.
Patrick Burke ND 75 from Pittsford, N.Y.: Eric, I was at Yankee Stadium with my son Brian ND 2002 and my two grandsons 10 and 7. I attended the A&M game earlier this year and thought the entrance into Kyle Field was terrible but as this was a Shamrock Series game I was disappointed at how incompetent stadium entrance was at Yankee Stadium. We really worked hard in order to get in within 45 minutes but spoke to others who waited far longer and missed a good chunk of the first quarter. Please tell me that Yankee management was primarily to blame but this being a Shamrock game ND certainly has some responsibility. I would have been tickled off if I missed any part of tremendous game plan and the performance of J.Love.
Eric Hansen: Patrick. I am really sorry this happened, and I've now heard quite a few stories similar to this at this visit to Yankee Stadium. The blame and the fixing of it is certainly in Yankee Stadium's court. But that is a good question for me to bring up with ND AD Pete Bevacqua the next time we get a chance to chart, about how ND can be proactive in making sure that doesn't happen at another venue.
Rich from Key West: I want to touch on an issue that you rarely discuss. I know it's sour grapes and that's not the gist of your chats. It seems to me that one of the largest drawbacks to not being a conference member is not having your own conference referees officiate in some form; your games. Away games on the field and home games in the replay booth. It seems like with conference games now being played coast to coast in some instances, that the officials could work for the NCAA rather than individual conferences. Now I'm sure that the individual conferences would never let that happen and lose their advantage in non conference games but it's getting near the Christmas season. The ACC officials are by far the most biased and consistently make their mark on the outcome of the games they officiate. I would assume that the only oversight the officials receive is from the conferences they represent and subsequently are paid by. What would your thoughts be about modeling the NCAA refs along the same lines as the NFL system.
Eric Hansen: Hi Rich. One of the benefits of doing this as long as I have is I've done stories before on addressing the possibility of a more national approach to assigning officials. I can understand why you think there might be bias, but sometimes officials just stink. It's incompetence. I have seen some poor officiating in the games I've covered and some good too this season. It sounds like you have way more data to support your argument. I definitely haven't done comparative studies that you apparently have. I was fortunate enough earlier in my career to have a great resource I could bounce ideas off of, relating to officials, both on and off the record. He is no longer with us, but Dave Parry, a longtime Big Ten official, became the first national coordinator of officials.
I'm not sure restructuring the way you suggest would eliminate the problems you see. Maybe mitigate them some. What I do know from my association with Parry was how much went on behind the scenes as far as holding officials accountable and trying to improve the individual and overall quality.
Shane from White Deer, Texas: Hey Eric. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. I didn’t go back and look at the chats, but after the loss to NIU, did you give this team much of a chance of making it to the playoffs, AND, possibly hosting a home game? I’m kind of like that kid in Polar Express, I want to believe, but it’s just so hard. Who knows, after Saturday I hope I hear the jingle bell. Thanks for the chats. Can’t believe we are wrapping up the regular season. Go Irish!!
Eric Hansen: Happy Thanksgiving. Here is a key passage from my column that day, which should give you some insight into what I was thinking on Sept. 7.
This shouldn’t be a crossroads stretch not only for this season, but setting the stage for where this program is headed. But here the Irish are one week after being the nation’s feel-good thread.
There’s opportunity, though, and that can’t be dismissed any more than the real urgency playing the team next Saturday picked to finish 18th in the Big Ten, Purdue, like the ND players’ hair is on fire.
Freeman has been authentic enough, consistent enough, transparent enough that he didn’t lose the locker room on Saturday along with the game. And that matters big time.
Eric Hansen: And here is the link to the entire column: How Notre Dame must move forward after implosion vs. Northern Illinois
Kevin from Calgary: Eric, hope you’re enjoying fall in South Bend, winter has already arrived up here. ND has been on an incredible run and with a win against USC (fingers crossed) can actually move into the sixth, or with some help, the coveted fifth place spot Jack Swarbrick envisioned for a top four Irish team that didn’t have to play in a conference championship (creating both first and second playoff games against lower ranked teams). Do you think if this happens there will be some blow back from the conferences who will naturally claim this is an unfair advantage for ND? Or will it just be the whiny Irish haters who complain?
Eric Hansen: Hi Kevin. I think there's already some whining about those conference champ byes and top four seed being given to teams ranked lower -- even outside the top 10. And it has nothing to do with Notre Dame. My sense is the same plan stays in place in 2025, and then gets a redo with the new playoff contract. There was already a push to go to a 14-team format, with two byes, and that likely is how things will end up in 2026, but the powers-that-be decided to give the 12-team format a go, and I think that was the right move. See how things play out for two years, then adjust.
Chris-non-biological-son-of-dad from Bloomingdale,Ill.: ???????!!!!!!!! If there are question marks, does that count as a question? If not, then that should. I really just want to say that I am thankful for chat Dad, Tyler Mom, and our red-headed step uncle Bob (Morton). Also, Happy Thanksgiving to my fellow chat brothers and sisters. Let's all enjoy the *** kicking that Notre Dame is going to put on the Trojans on Saturday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Eric Hansen: OK, the no-drinking rule is back in effect for you, Chris. And you better be wearing shoes too! Happy Thanksgiving.
Mark Czar from Grand Rapids, Mich.: Happy Thanksgiving Eric!! I hope you get plenty of family time during this busy time. Do you prepare a specialty side for the Thanksgiving table? What part of the USC defense looks most vulnerable? Has there been any details released on how and to what extent CJ Car was injured? Do you or Tyler reciprocate and do “Opponent Outlook” for weekly opponents? Enjoy the Holiday Eric!!
Eric Hansen: Hi Mark. I do make time for family. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I do not prepare it, but we do have a specialty side that I've shared the backstory of before. Briefly, my grandpa Pasquale Fatibeno was also my hero for so many reasons. When I was a little kid, I was kind of a picky eater, and my grandpa saw how mad my dad would get when I tried something and didn't like it. So he had a strategy. He would sit next to me at every dinner that was at their house. And he knew I liked baked beans, so he told my dad it was an Italian tradition to have them at every supper. And ever meal he'd put them on his plate and put some on mine to sell it. And it kept me out of trouble. And he even did it on Thanksgiving.
And when he passed, the very first Thanksgiving, the baked beans were still there. And whoever hosts, still makes them to this day. So, guess what will be on my plate tomorrow? ... Not sure how CJ Carr got injured, but we've asked about it a lot and what we've been told is this is more precautionary treatment than anything else and he'll be back soon. Not that he'd be playing in games anyway. I think in general Tyler talks to the opposing teams' websites and helps them out with the opponent outlooks. Happy Thanksgiving, Mark!
Jack from Strongsville, Ohio: Hi Eric. I am grateful for family, friends, food and you and Tyler. How many years remain on Marcus Freeman's contract and are there negotiations going on to extend it?
Eric Hansen: Hi Jack, I'm fairly certain he got five. I would expect if ND makes the playoff, that'll be the right time to look at an extension.
Steve from Kenosha, Wis.: Hi, Eric. Perhaps another spin on Marie’s question about Maiava, with whom does he most compare off the QB’s that ND has played the last 2 years?
Eric Hansen: Oh gosh, let me go off the top of my head here, so I don't have to pause the chat. This is not who he resumes physically, but how they use him and lean int the passing game, mobility, etc. He's a younger version of Tyler Shough at Louisville. Again, Shough has more size and he's like 40 years old, so he's savvy. But Maiava has that kind of poise, that kind of mobility and is asked to do a lot in an offense that leans way into the passing game.
Jeff from Canton, Mich.: Hi Eric! Read an article about 40 to 50 players transferring from Nebraska next season. I’m thinking that’s such a high number but when reading they have 165 players on the team including walk-ons and the 105 rule looming next year, I understood. I guess the NCAA realized teams can have high numbers since you can pay all the players with NIL money. 105 cap helps eliminate that. Since ND normally has 125 players, where will the other 20 or so players go? Are there no more walk-ons?
Eric Hansen: Jeff! It hasn't yet all been sorted out officially, so no one knows for sure, but there will be some sort of roster adjustment coming. And if the 105 cap is correct, it will mean some current walk-ons wouldn't be replaced or wouldn't come back. And the concept of a traditional walk-on does appear to be an endangered species in football, at least in the Rudy sense of it.
NWI_Irish96 from Munster, Ind.: Eric, first of all, very glad that you joined BlueSky. Can you get some of your colleagues to join you? Secondly, do you get the sense that USC as a common opponent may help determine the final order of ranking between ND and Penn State?
Eric Hansen: HI NWI. I like the format, very clean and easy to use. Not a lot of reposts right now, because ND football isn't on there yet, etc. I was the first one from the ND beat to sign up for Twitter 15-16 years ago, so again I will encourage people to go there. In the teleconference last night with Warde Manuel, I very much got the sense that would be a big discussion point next week -- the comparative score of ND-USC and Penn State-USC.
Scott from Greenville, S.C.: Eric!!!! First time with the exclamation points! And why not? It's Thanksgiving week and ND's game with USC! I truly hope we can all be thankful on Saturday afternoon-evening! I am very thankful for the coaching staff and depth we have on the team. If ND walks away with at least a 7 point win, do you think we jump PSU? Also, who do see as the players to watch the most on offense and defense? Who are the difference makers in this game? Thanks for all you do Eric. Love the Monday or occasionally Tuesday night FNS shows and definitely your articles on the team! BTW, best side dish is whatever I'm not making! Happy Thanksgiving!
Eric Hansen: Scott!!!!!! As I just mentioned, the committee is going to consider the USC games as a comparative data point. ND's largest margin of defeat this year is 7 points. So if ND wins by double digits that feels significant. But again, it's not just the score, it's watching the game. If ND wins and leads and is control throughout and USC calls a timeout to score a TD against ND's reserve defense and that cuts the lead to say 8 ... is that different than a 14-, 15-point victory? I'll narrow my scope to one player to watch on each side for ND ... and not obvious ones ... so Californian Beaux Collins on offense and Leonard Moore on defense. And thanks for watching and liking/loving Football Never Sleeps.
Ryan from Frankfort, Ill.: Good Afternoon Eric what do you think about the play of Jadarian price and Jaylen sneed before have looked good i think the Irish win 52-21 or something Like that Happy Thanksgiving GO IRISH 🍀🍀🍀🏈🏈🏈💪💪💪
Eric Hansen: Hi Ryan. Jadarian Price is such a nice complement to Jeremiyah Love. He's averaging about 7 yards a carry and runs tough. Jaylen Sneed has had a good back stretch of the season and DC Al Golden mentioned Monday Sneed's practice habits and performances have spiked in the past few weeks, so that's very good news. You are probably way better at picking scores than me, but I'm going lower-scoring ... ND 28, USC 17.
Bob from Oxnard, Calif.: What is your favorite ND-USC memory?
Eric Hansen: The Bush Push game IN THE MOMENT was the best college football game at that time I had ever covered. But it did not bring ND back on the college football map for good. So it loses a little luster over time, but wow.
Scubavt from Jamestown, Tenn.: Eric, the most recent Vegas odds has Notre Dame as a 7.5 point favorite over U$C. Do you think we cover the spread and win the game?
Eric Hansen: Ryan from Frankfort and I both have ND winning and covering the spread. I think ND's defense is just too good.
Rick from Pasadena, Calif.: Happy Early Thanksgiving to you and the family! What a difference in this team from NIU week until now. People talk about the defense, Improv d QB play, but what about the growth of the offensive line? On the subject of offensive line play, will USC line be able to block ND pass rush? The defense seems locked in.
Eric Hansen: Hi Rick. I know the Irish coaches were really pleased with the way the O-line played against Army. Pro Football Focus agrees. They gave ND its best pass-blocking grade in a game since the 2021 season and a decent run-blocking grade to go with it. USC has been pretty good this season at protecting whoever has been playing QB for them. And Happy early Thanksgiving/Black Friday to you too.
Len from the Jersey Shore: Hello Eric!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. As ND fans we all hope the coaches have the team ready to play once more. The CFP is crazy. I see scenarios where three lost teams get into the playoff. Would Georgia losing to Tech and then close to A & M (or Texas) get in? A Clemson team after losing to South Carolina get in with three losses after winning the conference championship game. What crazy scenario do you see?
Eric Hansen: Hi Lennnnnnn!!!!!! Happy Thanksgiving. I'm not sure I want to get into the business of predicting crazy, but there likely will be some of that this weekend in CFB. If I am reading your question correctly, no, a four-loss Georgia team would not get in. And if they lost to Ga Tech, the only way they get in with three losses is by winning the SEC Championship game. Same with Clemson. If they lost to South Carolina, they'd have to win the ACC title game to get in ... and they need Miami to lose to Syracuse on Saturday to even get a shot at that.
Matt from Austin: Hello Eric and a most Happy Thanksgiving from Austin. I wanted to get your reflections on what I thought was the key to the ND victory over Army. I know our offense was strong and our special teams were again terrific. But what really stood out to me was the gap discipline of our front seven and the excellent lane discipline of our defensive backs. Coach Golden had them ready and with only a couple of exceptions, we did not chase ball fakes or option misdirection. The entire defense played their responsibilities extraordinarily well and it was a joy to watch. I wondered if it impressed you as well and if you had any individuals who really stood out. Thanks again Eric and have a great Thanksgiving. Matt
Eric Hansen: Hi Matt. Yes, the game plan, the individual performances and the consistency of this defense against a real variety of offenses -- and doing so with key players having gone done -- is impressive to say the least. Some of the individuals who caught my eye -- Jaiden Ausberry, Jack Kiser, Adon Shuler, Junior Tuihalamaka and Christian Gray -- but certainly not limited to them. Happy Thanksgiving to you too.
Ced walker saginaw Michigan aka sagnasty Saginaw pride: I’m very worried about our corner being tested vs USC usc love to throw the deep ball al golden must have help side with our safeties god bless this football team here come the irish trust the process the golden standard rally we are nd god country go irish love thee notre dame our mother pray for us
Eric Hansen: Ced. I'm not sure if you are just giving me some statements or you have a question, but what I can say to either approach is ND does have the No. 1 pass-efficiency defense in the country and USC will try to put it to the test.
Denny from Beaverton, Ore.: Hi Eric; Well it is USC week and for a Notre Dame fan not much more needs to be said. I have so many great, and also gut wrenching, memories of this game over the years. I particularly remember my first game in Notre Dame stadium in 1977. Joe Montana led an Irish team that changed their blue jerseys to green after pregame warm-ups and then beat the Trojans something like 49-19. I remember that we arranged our honeymoon around this game and even brought my mother who was a great ND fan. We also watched USC beat ND in OT in both hers and Lou Holtz's last game from her hospital room in 1996. Lou Holtz, if my memory is correct, gave his players a written exam every year about the significance of this rivalry. Does Marcus do anything similar? In your interviews with the players of today, do you think they recognize the importance that this game has on the many followers of the Irish? Have a great week Eric and I am thankful for the great coverage you provide us fans out here.
Eric Hansen: HI Denny, as nostalgic as this rivalry is, I think Marcus has been consistent with focusing on the task at hand. And winning a game that gets you into the playoff will be remembered more fondly and for much longer than jeweled Shillelagh. And that's what a great rivalry should be about -- high stakes, not just bragging rights. No, I do not believe Marcus Freeman gives a written test, but he is very aware of ND's traditions and shares them with the team, and they eat it up. And a lot of these guys were recruited by USC, so they know the rivalry from both sides. So yes, history gets its due.... and thanks for sharing YOUR memories.
Mike from Phoenix: Eric, Happy thanksgiving to you and your family. I’m going to beat this drum again. Every time Marcus Freeman speaks it gets better and better. Chose violence. Who cares about the score of the game. We want to be greedy. Love it. I really don’t care who ND plays, with Marcus in charge I feel this team will not pull a Michigan or Miami flop like under the other guy. Don’t feel like #6 or #7 is much different currently with Oregon, Ohio State and Georgia in the top half of the bracket. Regardless this team brings physicality to the game and whichever team is on the other sideline seems to feeling the pain. ND vs OSU for the title. Marcus comes full circle from his 1st game. Cheers! Go IRISH!☘️
Eric Hansen: Happy Thanksgiving, Mike. I don't see a question in there, so I will nod, smile and move on to the next.
Dave from DC: Hi Eric, thanks as always for doing the chat. How confident do you think we should be that ND's depth will continue to perform at a high level as they head into the postseason? Players like Knapp, Hinish, Moore, Ausberry, Young, Burnham, and Tuihalamaka have shined the last two months. But it's no secret the level of talent and competition will be significantly better against playoff teams.
Eric Hansen: Hi Dave. I think you could ask that question of the teams ND will face as well. The Irish have the No. 1 pass-efficiency defense, No. 1 in turnovers gained, No. 5 on third-down defense, tied for No. 1 in blocked kicks/punts, No. 3 in rushing yards per carry. So in some ways, even teams that play in tough leagues are going to face aspects of ND's team than are better than what they're used to. So my confidence level is boosted by the fact ND hasn't played down to the competition and since losing to NIU has faced the pressure of an elimination game from playoff consideration every week with no wiggle room.
That doesn't mean a playoff game against anyone is easy. Even the first-round game my be the best opponent ND has played this season. But I like the mindset of this team to go along with how its played physically on the field.
Patrick from Los Angeles: Thank you for your generous contributions to ND Nation. It is of interest that USC did not have much success running the ball against UCLA last weekend. If the Trojans have the same lack of success against ND, do you think that ultimately bodes well for the Irish? What is the optimum scenario by which ND pulls out a victory? Thanks.
Eric Hansen: Hi Patrick. Thank you for the compliment. I think it would be easier in this format to answer your specific question than to get into all the elements of the game, which we've covered in stories, etc. USC has had its moments running the ball, but you're right, it was held to 86 yards on 29 carries vs. UCLA. USC is a pass-heavy offense. Ver comparable to Louisville in terms of sheer volume. The difference is Louisville throws it better and more consistently and has a more consistent run game to go with it. So if USC's run game isn't potent, it's going to create some third-and-longs and that is very favorable to ND's No. 1 pass-efficiency defense.
Kevin-Sleepy Eye,MN: Eric:):):):) Two things. 1) UMASS 2-9 team averaged 5.7yd per carry vs Georgia. More than Georgia averaged against UMASS (5.6y). Is there a better way to describe the parity in college football this season? The portal has stopped SEC dominance it appears. 2) When can we start seeing the documentary on the ND football team? This season has the ups and downs that can make that show really good! MF needs to be made the highest paid coach in college football so we keep him for a LONG time:):):):)
Eric Hansen: Kevin :):):):) &%$#@@ 2 answers ... let's start with No. 2. Episodes 1 and 2 of the Peacock docuseries Here Come The Irish dropped on Aug. 29. Episodes 3 and 4 are set to drop Dec. 5, with episodes 5 and 6 on Dec. 19 and Episode 7 on Jan. 16. ... Now to question 1. Georgia is 98th nationally in rushing offense, which will be a stress point for the Bulldogs in the playoff if they stay on course and make it in. And yes I do think there is much more parity this year.
Damon from Nashville: Eric, happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. What would be your keys to victory to beating those turkeys from LA?
Eric Hansen: Happy Thanksgiving, Damon. Win the turnover battle. Win the line of scrimmage. And let Al Golden eat.
Sean from Schaumburg, Ill. via Sunny Sarasota: I dispute Rich in Key West saying Game Officials are biased. We, truly, don't care about who wins or loses. To get to big time DI officiating guys are weeded out in a number of metrics and camps for Officials. Yes, some guys stink. The pressure to perform and be mistake-free is immense. Some guys get one opportunity-blow it-and never work a big-time DI again. Bias, in my view, doesn't exist.
Eric Hansen: Sean, I know you have another question in the hopper and I'll get to this next. I wanted to post this response. That is why I brought up my association with the late Dave Parry. I learned a lot about what goes on behind the scenes. And I am not a big fan of casting the "bias" net when there is no actual evidence to support it. If there is, fine. But as an AP voter, you would be surprised at how much people research me and why I could possibly "hate their school" and rank them lower than what they would.
Sean from Schaumburg, Ill. via Sunny Sarasota: Eric, I understand I may be one of the more annoying followers on this chat. I look at things through my collegiate officiating lens. Perfection, when I step between those white lines, is demanded/expected. I expect perfection from the team. Again-our reach should exceed our grasp or what's a heaven for? That's the standard. I'm with Tyler on this-until a FG is made by Jeter the angst amongst the fanbase will persist until Jeter makes a FG. Freeman/Biagi need to show confidence in Jeter in the pressers. What situations do you think Freeman/Biagi are creating in practices to mimic game-like atmosphere? Make these FGs and the team doesn't have to do sprints at the end of practice? An extra slice of pumpkin pie for everybody if he makes the FGs? Creating that pressure in practice, I believe, can benefit Jeter. He needs to make a FG on Saturday. One would hope a FG isn't the difference between a CFP home game on Dec 20/21 and watching the CFP from home. ND 33 USC 23. Happy Thanksgiving. Go Irish
Eric Hansen: Hi Sean, well this is more of a rant than a question. So Happy Thanksgiving and I won't try to rob you of your angst.
Bob from Oxnard, Calif.: If ND switched records with PSU, would the Committee rank ND behind PSU? (yeah, put me down for a definite Yes)
Eric Hansen: Why would you say that? I vote in a poll every week with 61 other people, and I don't think there's ever been a week in the history of polls where we've all voted the same. And that means there's bias and we're just voting for who we like most?
Tom F from Kennesaw, Ga.: Hi Eric. Hope that you have a very Happy Thanksgiving!!! What is your favorite side dish on Thanksgiving? For me, dressing with gravy!! How nervous should we be facing a USC team that has been in every game until late in the game this year? It looks like our biggest advantage might be in the OL and DL's. Agree or something else? If that is correct, is it enough of an advantage to control the game and not have it be close late in the game where the ghosts of Coliseum games in the past come back to haunt us?? Would you agree that MF seems much more serious in his PC's this year, especially after NIU?? He just seems to go straight to the answer and not as many smiles as last year. Happy Thanksgiving to all of the "chatters" and Go Irish!!!!!
Eric Hansen: Happy Thanksgiving, Tom. The best meal I have every year is Thanksgiving, bar none. Side dishes, turkey, family and not in that order LOL. I have a lot to be thankful for. A LOT. Notre Dame's trump card in every game is defense. And everything builds off of that. And now they have an offense that's complementary and not dragging along holding onto the bumper. But ND's defense, its physicality in the run game and its No. 2 ranking in turnover margin are what I see as the advantages. ... Is Marcus more serious since NIU? He's on point, on message. I still see him smile and he always taps my side when he walks past to the podium and gently hits my leg with his papers when he's walked off it. I'm glad he doesn't tackle me.
J Buckley from San Diego: Cmon. Let's go Irish, I'm going to be honest here, I'm jacked up for this game, but I feel I need to be pessimistic so my heart doesn't break... again. Whatever, the only thing I see USC bringing is an attitude to be spoiler, and they seem to have some peeps on the D line. I also feel that ND needs to put a whooping on them, in order to keep the committee from moving them down in the rankings after the conference championship games? The SEC this year is human, I feel ND has the talent to beat any team in the country not names NIU.LOL, Thoughts, and THANKS, THANKS , THANKS extra butter for you . Go IRISH. IT's Wednesday? I might have to go put something in my coffee.
Eric Hansen: I'm determined to clear out the queue today. I haven't come close yet this season. ... JBuck, my thoughts are kind of scattered because you're all over the place LOL. Are you sure you're drinking coffee? Tyler and I last night on Football Never Sleeps talked about where the line would be in the rankings between teams that could win it all and teams that could not. And sometimes that's between 2 and 3 and I think this year it's 7-8 deep, so that would include ND. And playoff path/matchups matter. I don't think there is a conference title game that will negatively affect ND's ranking.
Guest: Carlos from Augusta, Ga
Eric Hansen: Happy Thanksgiving Carlos, your question did not come through.
Rick Dierolf: Rick Dierolf Sinkimg Spring Pa Hello Eric and Haooy Thanksgiving. My questionsRick Dierolf: Rick Dierolf Sinking Soring Pa. Hello Eric and Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. If we get to
Eric Hansen: Rick, same with you ... unless you sent it telepathically.
John from Scottsdale, Ariz.: Looking back it appears the NIU loss was a point of growth for Coach Freeman this year. Where have you seen his most significant growth or evolution this year as a coach and where do you feel he still needs to grow moving forward? Happy Thanksgiving to you and the family and thank you for all the time and different media you use to keep the ND fan informed. It is greatly appreciated how you always go the extra mile.
Eric Hansen: Happy Thanksgiving. John. This is a tough one to do off the top of my head, and I'll explore this more after the season in story form since year 3 is such a defining season of a Notre Dame head football coach historically. But again for the chat today .. messaging is well thought out and clear to the team. The continued lean into sports science, the mix of analytics with gut feeling on the sideline in pivotal game situations. The use of bye weeks. Hs continued knowledge growth on offense and yet knowing the limits of his expertise there and deferring to his offensive coaches. And then staying true to what he was good at in the first place, including his authenticity continuing to shine.
John from Elkhorn, Neb.: Hi Eric - any idea of what Jeff Samardzija is up to these days? He doesn’t seem to be mentioned of former players who return to ND for a game. Also, still hoping you are planning an article on Zibby. Thanks.
Eric Hansen: Hi John. I have not followed what Jeff is doing but can find out down the road when the playoff, portal and signing day aren't all converging. I plan to talk to the Zbikowski family over the holidays, so I will see if there's a story brewing there. Thanks for asking.
Matthew from Aldie, Va.: Hey Eric, thanks for mentioning in last week’s chat that you may be able to get to my question this week. And a quick shoutout to Bill Bilinski for his solid coverage of men’s and women’s hoops!!!! Love that your website is a one-stop shop for all Irish sports. Here’s the Q from last week: How does Coach Freeman compare (in whatever metric you'd like, W-L record, recruiting success, big wins, positive program momentum, etc.) to the other coaches of major programs who began their tenures in the same year? I'm thinking about Lincoln Riley, Brent Venables, Mario Cristobal, Dan Lanning, BK, and anyone else you'd like to lump in. I think Freeman looks pretty good in comparison, especially considering he's a first-time HC (many others had previous HC experience). Would love to get your thoughts/analysis if you have the time for this question, and thanks. Happy Thanksgiving!
Eric Hansen: Oh Matthew. You are patient and I did promise, so I'll try to do it with the guys you mentioned, since there are 30 of them overall. When the season is completely over, I'll do a story. How's that? ... that includes all 30. Now keep in mind, what happens these next few weeks plays heavily into the evaluation. What happens in the USC game in any year matters big time. What happens THIS year is massive. But let's take the snapshot right now. I would give Lanning at Oregon the highest grade. I would put Marcus Freeman at 2, BK at three but scuffling, Cristobal but rising, Riley and then Venables. … and thanks for the kind words … and Happy Thanksgiving.
Steve from Huntington, Ind.: What’s the plan for the Tennis Pavilion and courts? Is the Pavilion staying and where are the courts moving to? Thanks.
Eric Hansen: Steve, I believe the pavilion is staying. and I'm not sure today where the new location of the outdoor courts will be, but I believe ND is renting the courts at the former South Bend Clay High School for the next few years.
Eric Hansen: OK, not question-dodging today. I even tried to answer one about tennis ... and one about pie! Thanks for all the great football questions too. We'll be back to do it all over against next Wednesday at noon ET.
• Talk with Notre Dame fans on The Insider Lounge.
• Subscribe to the Inside ND Sports podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, SoundCloud, Podbean or Pocket Casts.
• Subscribe to the Inside ND Sports channel on YouTube.
• Follow us on Twitter: @insideNDsports, @EHansenND and @TJamesND.
• Like us on Facebook: Inside ND Sports
• Follow us on Instagram: @insideNDsports
