Notre Dame’s Defense: Built to hit back

MIAMI -- Notre Dame had one of the nation’s best defenses last year — ranked fourth, giving up just 15.5 points per game. Now Chris Ash takes over as defensive coordinator, and Coach Marcus Freeman says the Irish are ready to keep that edge.

Cornerback Leonard Moore returns after locking down receivers as a freshman, holding opponents to just 46 percent completions. Across from him, Christian “Franchise” Gray is back after big plays against USC and in the Orange Bowl.

At linebacker, captain Drayk Bowen brings toughness with 78 tackles, while Jaiden Ausberry adds versatility and smarts all over the field. In the secondary, captain Adon Shuler is a proven playmaker with All-American honors already under his belt.

Lastly, up front, Donovan Hinish sets the tone with grit — reminding opponents this defense has been counted out, but they plan to hit harder than ever.

This group isn’t just defending. They’re out to prove they’re built different.