The end of the first losing season for Notre Dame football since 2007 ended much the way it began, with the Irish opponent reaching the end zone with frustrating regularity. In their 45-27 loss to the USC Trojans, Notre Dame allowed a score in virtually every way possible: a field goal, a touchdown run, two scoring passes, a punt return, a pick-six and a kickoff return.
Keeping Up With Jones
Stopping the Trojans on the ground meant keeping Ronald Jones II in check. The Irish defense had brief moments of success in this category, yet watched him break off a 51-yard scamper midway through the opening period to give USC their first touchdown.