Protection problems: Notre Dame’s offensive line and quarterback Everett Golson were helpless to stop Arizona State’s pressure, especially in the first half. Golson was sacked seven times, and the pressure contributed to his five turnovers.
Gashing the middle: One of the Irish’s strengths has been their run defense, but the Sun Devils found success on the ground, especially attacking the middle. And when Notre Dame was down three and needed a stop late, Arizona State ran all over the Irish.
Missed opportunities: Golson’s first-half mistakes played a big part in the loss, but an interception near the goal line to open the second half plus a botched field-goal snap to start the fourth quarter loomed large after the Irish had cut the Sun Devils’ lead to three.
Butler, Morgan step up: The Irish defense was down two key contributors in linebacker Joe Schmidt (ankle) and Cody Riggs (foot), who sat out after attempting to warm up. Riggs’ replacement, Devin Butler, fared well enough matched up against Arizona State’s Jaelen Strong but was burned for a 43-yard touchdown by Cameron Smith in the second quarter. Coach Brian Kelly said freshman Nyles Morgan did a “pretty good job” calling the defense. Morgan had four tackles.
Up next: The Irish hope to rebound at home Saturday against Northwestern.
— Chris Hine
