FREEMAN'S FOCUS: Notre Dame prepares for Navy’s tough challenge

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- After a six-game win streak, Notre Dame is getting ready for a real test. A 7-1 Navy team that looks much sharper than last week’s 1-7 Boston College squad.

Head Coach Marcus Freeman said the Irish still have a lot to clean up. The team left around 14 points on the table, missing two extra points, a field goal, and even fumbling in the red zone. Three different kickers were used, and Freeman admitted many of the mistakes were mental.

To help, the special teams unit has been working with team psychologist Joseph Ramaeker to build confidence and focus. Freeman said the key is translating practice results into real game performance.

Another major concern has been slow starts. In the last three games, Notre Dame has averaged only 12 first half points and has been scoreless in the first quarter twice. Freeman wants the team to start fast and finish strong, emphasizing the need to run the ball effectively but also attack through the air when defenses stack the line.

This year, Notre Dame’s offense has been more balanced, with 98 passing first downs compared to 73 rushing. Still, short yardage conversions have been an issue. The Irish are only 8 for 20 on fourth downs this season, and that number drops to 30 percent at home.

Freeman said the focus is on “velocity” and making sure players are clear on what they need to do in those critical moments. As for Navy, he expects a lot more variety than in past years, including more shotgun and pistol formations mixed with their usual triple option style.

To stay in the playoff race, Notre Dame will need to be sharper across the board — starting faster, converting short yardage plays, and improving on special teams. And they’ll have to keep a close eye on Navy’s Eli Heidenreich, a major threat both in the air and on the ground.

Freeman says the film study is done and now it’s about bringing that same energy and focus from practice to game day.