After a back and forth battle with USC, Notre Dame outlasted the Trojans with a strong fourth quarter. Against Temple, the Irish should hope to be in better position heading into the game’s final 30 minutes. Because the Owls have proven to be a very good second half team and even better closers.
The identity of Matt Rhule’s undefeated team is its toughness, led by a defense that’s among the best statistical units in the country. And buoyed by that performance, the Owls have showed an ability to finish games, playing solid football in the first and second quarter before separating from the pack in the second half.