Photo by Kent Gidley
DALLAS, TEXAS — Monday was the first day media had access to Rose Bowl opponents Alabama and Notre Dame as the two teams focus on their missions to advance in the College Football Playoffs and play in the National Championship Game.
Notre Dame Head Coach Brain Kelly plans on executing every offensive play against a strong Crimson Tide Defense. Kelly stated, “They know what they’re up against and where to focus their strengths against the Tide. Nonetheless they are very fortunate to be back in the final four at the Rose Bowl.”
D210SPORTS spoke with Notre Dame’s running back Kyren Williams and wide reciever Ben Skowronek if they feel any pressure. Williams stated, “I don’t feel much pressure playing against Alabama, more so just staying focused on the job they came to finish.” Skowronek also chimed in and said, he knows his team needs to execute every play. “All teams that win championships finish every play, and that is the game plan.”
Notre Dame’s high powered offense might propose as threat to Alabama’s defense. Irish Quarterback Ian Book threw for 2600 passing yards, rushed for 430 rushing yards, totaling 23 touchdowns this season.
Book commented on Alabama’s offense, stating he was a former teammate with Najee Harris in 7 on 7 in his younger years of playing football. Book knows what Harris brings to the table and Notre Dame’s defense will have to step up their game.
Alabama Head Coach Saban stated his concern on the Fighting Irish offense, “ It’s certainly going to be a challenge on our defense. They are going to have to stay disciplined and focused. Notre Dame’s offense has a great balance combined with a dual threat guy, so we will need to stay dialed in.”
