Strength on strength: Notre Dame's dominant defensive must stop Ohio State's explosive offense

 

ATLANTA, Ga. -- Notre dame’s defense has been the story of the season.

"You never have to ask them to give everything they have, because that's part of their DNA," said Notre Dame Defensive Coordinator Al Golden.

Golden’s hard-hitting defense is ranked second in the FBS in scoring and Ohio State’s offense is aware.

"First of all, Notre Dame's defense, I mean, I think that the hardest thing about them is that they play really, really hard," said Ohio State quarterback Will Howard."

Hard enough to force 13 fumbles and 19 interceptions so far this season.

"Before we go out, coach Golden always says the same thing. We've got them right where we want them. Even if they're two yards from a touchdown, we've got them right where we want them," said Notre Dame Defensive Lineman Howard Cross III.

The success of this Notre Dame team has come from the next man up mentality – after losing first- and second-string staters.

"Everybody here is prepared in case someone has unfortunately goes down," said Notre Dame Defensive Lineman Gabe Rubio.

And now the biggest test is staring them in the face: lining up against Ohio State’s elite offense which is powered by a veteran quarterback, a dangerous run game, and a freshman receiver ranked third with 14 touchdowns.

Jeremiah smith: wide receiver - "We're just ready for the challenge," said Ohio State Wide Receiver Jeremiah Smith. "Like you said, probably the best defense we're probably going to see all year."

For the Irish, they know the task ahead, and what they need to do to bring home the hardware.

"A national championship," said Rubio. "The last one we won was '88 you know, haven't won one in what 40, almost 40 years later. It would mean the world to the university ... would mean the world to this team, you know, just, you know, solidify a legacy."