Wed Sep 18 00:22:53 UTC 2024: ## Notre Dame’s Rushing Attack Takes Flight, Despite Injury Concerns
**SOUTH BEND, Ind.** – Notre Dame’s rushing attack soared to new heights last week against Purdue, but injuries to the offensive line threaten to ground the Fighting Irish’s momentum.
The Irish, currently ranked 17th in the nation, amassed a staggering 362 rushing yards and six touchdowns in a 66-7 rout of Purdue, the most lopsided win in the series’ history. Running back Jeremiyah Love was a key contributor, notably hurdling a Northern Illinois defender on a 34-yard touchdown run.
The team’s success on the ground has led to optimism about the offense as a whole. “If the running backs are established, it opens up the passing game,” said Love. “We just have to keep practicing hard, and eventually we’ll get better chemistry.”
Despite the positive outlook, the Irish face a new challenge: injuries. Right guard Billy Schrauth and center Ashton Craig both suffered injuries against Purdue, with Craig’s injury being season-ending. The team also lost projected starting tackle Charles Jagusah to a torn pectoral muscle in August.
Despite these setbacks, head coach Marcus Freeman remains committed to a run-heavy offense. “You still have to be committed to running the ball,” he stated. “That’s what our identity is.”
Quarterback Riley Leonard, a transfer from Duke, has been crucial to the rushing attack. He rushed for 100 yards and three touchdowns against Purdue, becoming the first FBS player to reach those milestones in the first half since Lamar Jackson in 2016.
While the offense is currently averaging an impressive 222.7 rushing yards per game, the team will need to overcome the recent injury concerns to continue its offensive dominance.
“You can’t go three-and-out and say, ‘OK, let’s keep running the ball,'” said Freeman. “You’ve got to move the chains and change the field position.”
The upcoming game against Miami (Ohio) will be a test of the team’s resilience and ability to overcome these challenges. Despite the injury concerns, Notre Dame’s rushing attack has shown its potential and will look to maintain its momentum heading into the remainder of the season.
First Piper 