November 15th, 2008 | Uncategorized | Posted by Mike Hoffman
Right before halftime Notre Dame sophomore kicker Brandon Walker put the Irish ahead with a 28 yard field goal.
Three plays before the kick Notre Dame fans got a scare when quarterback Jimmy Clausen got clocked diving for extra yardage on a seven yard scramble down to the Navy 9. He dove headfirst before a Navy defender hit him on the side of the helmet and in the right shoulder. Clausen slowly walked off the field, but only sat out one play before trotting back out there.
Through the first half its been a defensive battle. Navy has already caused three turnovers including two interceptions of Clausen, but they have failed to take advantage scoring zero points off turnovers. Their last drive was promising and resulted in a 23 yard touchdown run after marching 52 yards on five plays.
Notre Dame is also running the ball effectively with running back James Aldridge gaining 50 yards in the first quarter. Surprisingly, he didn’t get a carry for the rest of the first half. Navy’s defensive line will have to continue to get leverage to slow down Aldridge in the second half.
Keys to the second half will be to see if Navy can continue to cause turnovers, but score after they do so. Navy’s offense also has to ensure they protect the football and protect their punter.
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