Pressure’s on: Notre Dame defense faces test against Purdue

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The biggest takeaway from Notre Dame’s loss last week wasn’t the offense, it was how much the defense struggled. Through just two games under new coordinator Chris Ash, the Irish have allowed 68 points, leaving fans asking what’s gone wrong with a unit that ranked fifth nationally a year ago.

Notre Dame has struggled to generate pressure, recording zero sacks against Texas A&M quarterback Marcel Reed. Overall, the Irish have just one sack and two tackles for loss this season. Reed made them pay, throwing 360 yards, with Notre Dame forcing only one turnover.

Tackling has been another concern. Pro Football Focus ranks the Irish 100th out of 136 FBS teams in tackling, and those mistakes led to explosive plays—A&M’s quarterback averaged more than 21 yards per completion.

The team will also be without leading tackler Adon Shuler in the first half this week after his second half targeting ejection. Shuler had seven tackles against the Aggies and is a key leader in the secondary.

Still, there were bright spots. Notre Dame held A&M to two field goals in the red zone and cornerback Leonard Moore came up with a clutch interception to keep the Irish in the game.

The defense has plenty to fix, but there are glimpses of the unit fans expected to see.