Will Notre Dame Follow Texas's Blueprint To Tame Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith?

Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith has emerged as one of the nation's most formidable running backs. In 2022, he set records, rushing for 1,581 yards and 18 touchdowns. As the Buckeyes prepare to face Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl, the Fighting Irish must find a way to neutralize Smith's explosive abilities.

One potential solution is to follow Texas's blueprint from their game against Ohio State earlier this season. In that contest, the Longhorns employed a combination of stout defense and aggressive blitzes to contain Smith, limiting him to just 59 rushing yards.

Texas's defensive strategy against Smith was predicated on two key elements:

This strategy was successful in disrupting Smith's rhythm and limiting his opportunities to gain significant yardage.

Notre Dame's defense is known for their physicality and athleticism. They have a talented front seven capable of applying pressure on Smith.

However, the Irish's defense has been vulnerable to the run this season. They have allowed an average of 153.3 rushing yards per game, which ranks 77th in the FBS.

Whether Notre Dame can replicate Texas's success against Smith remains to be seen.

On the one hand, Notre Dame has the personnel to match up with Ohio State's offensive line. They have a strong defensive line led by All-American defensive end Isaiah Foskey.

On the other hand, Notre Dame's linebackers and safeties have not been as effective at blitzing as Texas's. The Irish have recorded only 10 tackles for loss and 2 sacks in their last four games.

Whether Notre Dame can follow Texas's blueprint and contain Jeremiah Smith will be a key factor in determining the outcome of the Fiesta Bowl. The Irish have the physicality and athleticism to pull it off, but they need to execute their game plan flawlessly.

If Notre Dame can disrupt Smith and force Ohio State to rely on their passing game, they will have a chance to pull off the upset.

The result of the Fiesta Bowl will have implications beyond just the game itself. If Notre Dame can slow down Smith, it will provide a roadmap for other teams facing Ohio State in the future.

It will also give the Irish a major boost of confidence heading into the offseason. Notre Dame is a rising program with a lot of potential. A victory over Ohio State would send a strong message to the rest of the country.