The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are currently beating the Ohio State Buckeyes in an extremely close and disappointing contest, 10-7 at halftime. Before the game started we discussed many times how Ohio State has been a favorite by more than two touchdowns and they are on pace to not only lose against the spread but are now in a dogfight just to come out on top.
Notre Dame has played extremely well in the first half and it has been evident that they’ve come to compete, but it has always been evident that the Buckeyes cannot move the ball, which is especially disheartening. Let’s see what three things were most notable in the first half.
Offensive Struggles
Thinking about dramatically overreacting to one quarter where Ohio State's offense didn't look like the Greatest Show On Turf
— Matt Brown (@MattBrownEP) September 4, 2022
The Ohio State Buckeyes have looked pathetic on offense They are losing the time of possession battle, the rushing yards battle, and most notably and egregious, the passing yardage battle. I understand that Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been hurt, but this is a rough start.
Denzel Burke suffering from bad luck
What a catch! Notre dame #cfb pic.twitter.com/j94zuALN3r
— DKY Sports (@DkySports) September 4, 2022
Denzel Burke has been beaten a few times, but every time has been awkward and the most obvious time was the circus tip catch that was made by Notre Dame. This feels like a game, where Burke can earn a game-sealing interception because the pendulum of luck just has to swing back in his favor.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba hurt
After taking the hit on the sideline to start the drive, Jaxon Smith-Njigba did not come back in. He was getting talked to on the sideline and put his helmet back on right before the Emeka Egbuka touchdown. Something to keep an eye on.
— Patrick Murphy (@_Pat_Murphy) September 4, 2022
C.J. Stroud is a great quarterback, but Jaxon Smith-Njigba maybe just proved that he is more valuable to this offense. When Smith-Njigba went down, the Ohio State offense halted and the miscommunication between Stroud and the receivers is something that needs addressing.
