Can Notre Dame Avoid the Trap Game Against NC State?
The Fighting Irish are gearing up for a showdown with the Wolfpack, and the stakes are higher than ever. But here's the twist: this isn't just any game—it's a potential trap before the highly anticipated clash with USC. And this is the part most people miss: Notre Dame's 0-2 start to the '25 season has left them with no room for error, emotionally or otherwise. They can't afford a letdown, especially against a capable North Carolina State team. But will they rise to the occasion?
Tim O’Malley (Senior Editor) boldly predicts that Notre Dame will finally see both its offense and defense perform at their expected levels this Saturday. The offense has already surpassed preseason expectations, and the defense has shown consistency over a 10-quarter span. However, the real question is: Can they maintain this momentum against a Wolfpack team that’s not the same pushover from years past?
John Brice (Football Scoop) points out that while Notre Dame is building equity week after week, they haven’t yet earned the right to assume victory. But with a smoother offensive operation and a defense that’s improving, if not dominant, the Irish should handle NC State. But here's where it gets controversial: Is Notre Dame’s defense truly as improved as recent performances suggest, or have they simply faced weaker opponents?
Drew Mentock (Writer & Digital Media Manager) highlights the explosive weapons in NC State’s arsenal, particularly quarterback CJ Bailey and running back Hollywood Smothers. Yet, he believes Notre Dame’s defense, led by Adon Shuler, can keep them in check. The real debate here: Can Notre Dame’s offensive talent, including CJ Carr and the dynamic running back duo of Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price, exploit NC State’s defensive weaknesses as effectively as predicted?
Eric Thomas (Recruiting Reporter) brings up an interesting point: This is the annual Peacock game, often met with groans from fans. But could it be a blessing in disguise? Notre Dame is a 23.5-point favorite, and their offense is firing on all cylinders. However, the controversial question remains: Will NC State’s ability to compete in high-pressure situations force the Irish to dig deeper than expected?
Bryan Ault (Recruiting Reporter) praises CJ Bailey’s NFL potential and NC State’s tall receivers, but he’s confident Notre Dame’s offense will outshine the Wolfpack. The counterpoint: Is Notre Dame’s secondary truly prepared to handle Bailey’s dual-threat capabilities and the size of NC State’s receivers?
Tom the Intern (Emeritus) isn’t entirely convinced by Notre Dame’s defensive strides, especially against stronger opponents. He predicts a closer game than others, with NC State’s offense posing a real threat. The thought-provoking question: Are we underestimating NC State’s ability to exploit Notre Dame’s defensive vulnerabilities?
Final Thoughts: While most predictions favor Notre Dame, the margin of victory varies widely, from a comfortable 24-point win to a closer 7-point edge. What do you think? Is Notre Dame’s defense as solid as recent performances suggest, or is there a risk of a letdown? Will NC State’s offense surprise everyone and keep the game closer than expected? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
