Notre Dame offense looks to exploit Miami’s vulnerable secondary

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Notre Dame’s offense is averaging more than 40 points per game, but the Irish face their toughest test on the ground Saturday against Miami’s top-ranked rushing defense.

The Hurricanes are allowing just 61 rushing yards per game, led by defensive tackles Ahmad Moten and Justin Scott. Edge rusher Marquise Lightfoot has also recorded seven sacks this season.

Notre Dame offensive lineman Anthonie Knapp said last year’s three-point loss to Miami remains a reminder of how important execution will be.

“I think the biggest thing from last year is we didn’t take advantage of the little things,” Knapp said. “When you play a good team like this, you don’t really get a lot of opportunities to get things right.”

While Miami has dominated against the run, its secondary has struggled, ranking 121st nationally against the pass and allowing nearly 252 yards per game.

That could create opportunities for quarterback CJ Carr, who has thrown 18 touchdowns and just one interception this season. Notre Dame’s offensive line has also allowed only two sacks.

Wide receiver Jordan Faison, who leads the Irish with 497 receiving yards, said the receiving corps understands the challenge.

“The DBs, obviously, is what we’re focused on,” Faison said. “As a wide receiver unit, we’ve got to make plays in the air.”

With Miami’s defensive front capable of limiting the running game, offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock may need to rely on Carr and his receivers to move the ball.

The Irish will look to capitalize on those matchups Saturday as they seek to avenge last season’s loss.