Notre Dame kicked off the second half of its season with a strong 31-13 win over Georgia Tech and now faces an unexpected test against the undefeated Navy Midshipmen, who are 6-0 after struggling through four consecutive losing seasons with a 16-30 record.
These two storied programs first clashed in 1927, and this marks their 96th encounter. Notre Dame has a commanding lead in the series with an 82-13-1 record, winning the last six meetings and 11 of the past 12. The game will be held in the New Jersey Meadowlands for the first time since 2010, when Navy secured a 35-17 victory.
Key matchups to watch this Saturday include:
**QB Riley Leonard vs. Navy Defense:** Leonard rebounded from an interception against Georgia Tech and is essential to Notre Dame’s running game. He must maintain offensive momentum to prevent Navy from controlling the clock. The Midshipmen’s pass rush has recorded 15 sacks this season and forces turnovers, while they allow 165 rushing yards per game.
**Notre Dame Defense vs. QB Blake Horvath:** The Irish defense has been consistent, shutting out Georgia Tech after allowing an early touchdown. They need to limit long runs to avoid an upset. Horvath leads Navy’s run-heavy offense, completing 46 of 72 passes and leading the team in rushing with 621 yards.
**WR Beaux Collins vs. CB Dashaun Peele:** Collins has emerged as Leonard’s go-to target, but Peele, fresh off two interception returns for touchdowns, poses a significant challenge.
**DE RJ Oben vs. LT Connor McMahon:** Oben, a transfer from Duke, will need to adapt to Navy’s offensive strategies, while McMahon plays a crucial role in the Midshipmen’s effective run game.
**T Aamil Wagner vs. DE Justin Reed:** Wagner has been a stabilizing force on the offensive line, while Reed leads Navy in sacks and could pressure Leonard into passing situations.
