Yup, you read that right – Notre Dame upsets Clemson in a shocking beatdown. After the mostly-plummeting roller coaster of a year that it’s been for the Fighting Irish – there’s finally a shining (and defining) moment. In a well-played, passionate, and disciplined effort – there’s a lot to write home about for the boys in Blue & Gold. But, what stood out to me most was that the lights weren’t too bright.
After Week 2, the season was ultimately a yardstick for the Marcus Freeman era, and a fight for pride, future recruits, and the all-too-popular transfer portal. And yet, even despite losing their starting quarterback (and a few more games along the way) – the Irish did the unthinkable… Not only did they beat number 4-ranked Clemson – they beat number 4-ranked Clemson. You know when you’re going into the fourth quarter with a 21-0 lead, you played a damn good game. Here’s why:
Run, Run, and Run Some More
And with Audric Estimae, we place an extra emphasis on STRENGTH. While he may not be a Heisman candidate or a future first-rounder – it’s clear at this point that the guy is a STUD. Furthermore, Logan Diggs showed up as well with a 100+ yard performance, adding a speedier, more elusive change of pace to the bruiser. It may go without saying at this point, but the ND Offensive Line had themselves a day – getting a solid push on nearly every running play; manhandling Clemson’s highly talented D-line.
And aside from the obvious of gaining yards and points on the board through the run game – the effectiveness of Estimae and company gave Notre Dame all of the momentum. When you can run the ball like that, the ball is in your hands – literally and metaphorically. When you have the men up front having their way and the clock, physicality, and momentum is in your favor – good things happen.
Drew Pyne Did His Job
When I write that the lights weren’t too big for Notre Dame – much of that applies to Drew Pyne. While the kid didn’t have the game of his life – he also managed the team about as well as you could’ve asked. I wrote before the game that he wouldn’t win it with his arm, and he didn’t – but he sure did contribute in a major way with it. For many back ups, an intimidating Clemson defense – and the bright lights – will cause mistake after mistake. And yet, while Pyne only threw for 85 yards – he also didn’t have an interception or a fumble. He knew his job, and executed it.
Going 9 of 17 tells a few things: firstly, that Pyne was never a big part of the gameplan to begin with; but more importantly, that when he did get the chance to throw it – he was accurate! What was equally as impressive about the pressure – on a literal note, when Clemson brought some heat, Pyne was able to scramble away – not trying to do much, but also getting significant yardage.
Don’t Take the Foot Off of the Gas
Early on, when Notre Dame had just a 7-0 lead, there were two series where the ND Defense came up huge and stopped Clemson on 3 downs – and yet, the Offense didn’t respond with a score. At that moment, the momentum could’ve easily shifted to the Tigers taking back control. And yet… it didn’t. Because the Defense kept up the effort, and the Offense kept grinding. Sure enough, the intensity even ramped up – as the turnover on downs escalated into turnovers.
Although the party was started witha blocked punt TD – many would consider that a one-off sjurprise. But last night, that wasn’t the case. On that note, the Irish Defense played one hell of a game, limiting one of the nation’s best RB’s in Shipley, putting constant pressure on DJ Uigalalei, and freshman Benjamin Morrison with 2 INT’s – one of which was a pick-six. Us fans haven’t seen Defensive performances like this often, but sure enough – they showed up and showed out in a statement game that showed the nation that ND is still relevant.
Notre Dame Upsets Clemson: Conclusion
The first thing that comes to mind after this victory – how does the narrative on Marcus Freeman look now? Do those losses now look more like growing pains rather than poor coaching? Does not firing Tommy Rees seem more rational now? Granted, us fans won’t forget the losses, but can we at least forgive them now? It’s crazy what one huge victory can do; and while those previous bold takes may be an overstatement, it is clear that Freeman at least gained a boatful of respect. He did what Brian Kelly could never do – win the big game.
When Notre Dame lost the close one to Ohio State, many thought it’d be more of the same. But how about now? The future looks a whole lot brighter…
And now, Notre Dame has a few “winable” games against Navy and Boston College before they face their next, and last, major test against USC – who currently sits at number 8 in the AP Poll. If Notre Dame can pull of that victory as well, going 2-1 against top 10 teams – then that will really be saying something, Mr. Freeman. But, let’s enjoy this for now. Not just the win – but the team playing as a team, an identity solidifying itself, the defense finally clicking and firing on all cylinders, and a victory which reminds you of the pride that comes with playing for (or rooting for) Notre Dame.
When you come to Notre Dame, you vow to play like a champion today. And yesterday, they did.
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