The Notre Dame Fighting Irish will be without two key contributors in the secondary for the Fiesta Bowl against Ohio State. Safety Max Redfield was sent home for violating team rules, while Devin Butler broke his foot. Head coach Brian Kelly didn't reveal what rule Redfield broke.
With Butler out, the team will start Nick Watkins at corner. Butler played in seven games this season, recording 11 tackles, two pass breakups and a fumble.
This will be a bit of trial by fire for Watkins. He's played in just three games in his career. He has five tackles this season.
Matthias Farley will likely get the nod at free safety with Redfield out. Redfield was third on the team with 63 tackles this year. The junior also had one pick, two pass breakups and two tackles for loss in 10 games. Farley has 33 tackles and a pick this season.
The Irish were already thin in the secondary with injuries to cornerback KeiVarae Russell and safety Drue Tranquill. Both injuries were season-ending. With Butler and Redfield out, the Fighting Irish are down to just six defensive backs who have seen real playing time this season.
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