Notre Dame’s defensive line seeks redemption against Purdue

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) – Despite their impressive depth, the Irish defensive line struggled in last week’s 16-14 loss to Northern Illinois, constantly being pushed back two or three yards and physically outmatched throughout the game.

“Yeah, I think after watching the film, NIU came in with a good plan and looking back, I think they were able to attack us laterally and forced us to play their style a little bit,” senior defenseman Rylie Mills said. “Going forward, we just have to take that as a reminder to stick with what works for us. Get back to our level and play our brand of football.”

A key player for the Huskies on Saturday was running back Antario Brown, who racked up 183 total yards of offense, including a crucial 83-yard reception that swung the momentum in their favor. The defense is fully aware of the backlash that would follow such a performance.

“We’re better than that. And I think from there, we’re going to see a different Notre Dame defense and offense,” Mills said. “There’s no motivation here, we have everything we need. And in terms of outside noise, we have the loudest, most passionate fans of almost any team in the country, so that’s just something that comes with it.”

The Fighting Irish now face a Purdue offense led by Hudson Card, who scored four touchdowns in the season opener against Indiana State. However, as defensive coordinator Al Golden points out, growth doesn’t come without facing adversity.

“We have to correct the things that we did wrong and own up to them,” Golden said. “Starting with me, and I take full responsibility for the execution, and we have to correct them from here on out because the season is relentless. It waits for no one. We have to correct the mistakes and get ready for the next opponent.”

The defensive line has recorded just one sack in two games and is eager to turn that around in its upcoming matchup against the Boilermakers.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. EDT on CBS/Paramount+.

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