The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have another big game this weekend when they host USC, and the Irish would love nothing more than to hand the Trojans their second consecutive loss. Here are three reasons why Notre Dame will win this weekend:
3) DeShone Kizer's development
DeShone Kizer has done a fine job filling in for the injured Malik Zaire this season. After almost leading ND to a banner comeback win at Clemson last week, Kizer settled in on Saturday completing just over 73% of his passes for 281 yards, one TD and one INT. He's still learning, but he's acquitted himself well under the spotlight, and we know this stage won't be too big for him.
2) USC is reeling
Not only did USC lose in a disappoinging game to Washington last Thursday, then head coach Steve Sarkisian was fired amidst reports of alcohol abuse during team meetings and that he was even during drunk during their game against Arizona State this year. That's a lot of turmoil for any team to overcome in a season, let alone in less than a week. Chances are they'll come out flat in this one.
1) C.J. Prosise's dominance
Prosise amassed 129 receiving yards and three scores in the team's win over Navy this week, along with catching four passes for 56 yards. Amidst the rash of injuries ND has suffered this year, Prosise has been an absolute rock, gaining 779 yards and nine touchdowns on 110 carries. Expect him to have another big performance against USC's lackluster rush defense.