One week after getting handled by a Michigan team that struggled to beat Akron, Notre Dame is having a hard time bouncing back against long-time nemesis Purdue.
The Irish trail the Boilermakers, 10-3, at the half and would’ve been shut out if not for a Kyle Brindza field goal with 20 seconds left in the second quarter.
Quarterback Tommy Rees went just eight of 17 for 94 yards as Purdue stymied the Notre Dame offense to the tune of 53 yards before an 80-yard drive that led to Brindza’s points.
Meanwhile, Rob Henry had an efficient half for Purdue, completing 12 of 19 passes for 122 yards and a touchdown.
Win or lose today, is it time for Notre Dame to panic? The Irish look beyond lethargic and are in danger of notching their second loss of the season before getting to the teeth of their schedule. While Rees is steady, ND really misses the playmaking ability of Everett Golson, who is out for the season for disciplinary reasons. With the run game being so inconsistent (just 29 yards in the first half), it might be time to turn to Andrew Hendrix to see what he can do.
If the Irish do fall to Purdue, there would be nothing to lose.