Despite not being ranked in the top 50 in the nation in total defense, Notre Dame does rank 36th in college football in total yards allowed and the Irish defense looked very capable against a high powered Georgia offense, keeping the Bulldogs in check most of the game.
Defense may very well be the name of the game in this critical matchup between two top 20 ranked teams. Here are three key defensive matchups to keep an eye on as 10th ranked Notre Dame and 18th ranked Virginia square off on Saturday.
Notre Dame Cornerback Shaun Crawford vs Virginia Wide Receiver Joe Reed
Senior wide receiver Joe Reed is Virginia’s leading receiver this year, with 23 receptions for 215 yards and three receiving touchdowns.