Notre Dame got off to a terrible start against Miami, but despite many mistakes, the Irish prevailed against the Redhawks and took a 28-3 victory at home.

In the first quarter, the Irish offense with Riley Leonard at quarterback looked completely incompetent. But it wasn’t just the Irish quarterback’s fault, because the offensive line didn’t offer the running backs much space and the pass rush confused them when trying to pass. Add to that bad plays and a fumble by Jordan Faison, so they went into the second quarter with a 0-0 score.

Shortly into the second quarter, the Redhawks’ advance in the RedZone stalled and they kicked a field goal, giving the Irish a 3-0 lead.

Riley Leonard struggled to pass the ball to just about anyone, but he sprinted 8 yards into the end zone for a 7-3 lead. On Notre Dame’s next offensive play, Leonard finally threw his first touchdown pass of the season, a 38-yard pass to Beaux Collins.

The score was 14-3 at halftime, but the Irish seemed to be gaining momentum. That continued until the opening drive of the third quarter, but Leonard fumbled after running for over 40 yards and the vicious cycle began again.

Notre Dame increased its lead to 21-3 after a 15-yard touchdown run by Jeremiyah Love. On the replay, it was clear that Love had a fumble just outside the end zone and Aamil Wagner jumped on it to secure the point – but Love was credited with that extra half yard and the six points.

While Leonard’s passing is questionable, the guy can run. In the 4th quarter, the Irish went for it on 4th and 1 and Leonard ran 50 yards to make it 28-3.

The Irish defense looked a little weak early on, despite an interception by Junior Tuihalamaka, but was able to keep Gabbert and the Miami offense under control for most of the day. Boubacar Traore had two sacks on the day and started in place of Jordan Botelho.

It wasn’t a dominant day on the scoreboard for Notre Dame, but they got the win and are 3-1 on the season.

Further information will follow on OFD.