The best way to defend USC is to do something that is not on film. The HC/OC relies on scouting reports, doesn’t anticipate new strategies from the opposing defense, is not very adaptable on the fly, takes minimal advantage of analysis from the press box, or any input from anyone. So do something new!

Another good strategy is count on USC not to do anything new. The HC/OC is not cognizant that his team is being scouted. He sticks with the same plays, the same percentage of passes to Lee. He doesn’t really try to keep the defense off balance. He shows little interest in giving the opposition a look they have seen before, and then using their recognition against them. So look for something old!

Another good strategy is to assume 3 to 5 turnovers by USC. The HC/OC is not good at solving chronic problems. He likes to use WRs as RBs, because they are more prone to fumble. He likes to throw a lot to Lee, even when other receivers are barely defended. He likes to call plays in patterns, so routes can be jumped. What is a little complicated this game, is that MB is is out. He was always good for a couple of INTs, at least one from overestimating his accuracy and his arm strength when he was not perfectly aligned and in balance before throwing, and/or was over-relying on Lee to catch it in coverage. What makes it a little less complicated is that the back-up has never played, so there ought to be beginner’s mistakes. But you never know.

So, those are the defenses that bother USC. But can Notre Dame defend like that?