Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly said Saturday night that he wasn’t so concerned about what the Irish did wrong in their 17-14 win over Stanford than with celebrating the victory. Evaluation is what Sunday and Monday are for. Here’s a look at how the Irish did in the big win.
Offense: C+
Yes, the Irish were playing the No. 1-rated defense in the country, and yes, Everett Golson won the game in the final minutes, but the Irish running game stagnated and Golson committed two costly turnovers — one in the Irish’s red zone and one deep in Notre Dame territory. That can’t happen again if the Irish want to stay perfect.
Defense: A
The Irish held Stanford to its lowest yards per play since 2006. Cole Luke intercepted two passes, and while the offense struggled to get going, the defense made sure the game stayed close. Saturday was a big test for the Irish’s front seven against a traditionally physical Stanford line. The Irish showed they are legit.
Special teams: D
Notre Dame did a commendable job limiting Ty Montgomery in the return game, but the Irish botched two snaps on field goals that cost them six points in a game where scoring was at a premium.
Coaching: A-
Kelly and his staff instilled the Irish with the necessary confidence that they could go toe-to-toe with a formidable opponent. Even after Stanford took the lead in stunning fashion late, the Irish never lost their cool and are still undefeated.
