SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) — No. 11 Notre Dame heads into its season-opening game at home against Texas on Saturday looking to rely more on the run.
The Fighting Irish have an offensive line led by left tackle Ronnie Stanley, who has been projected by some as a possible top 10 NFL draft pick, and Nick Martin, a second-year captain with 24 career starts. They have an experienced running back in Tarean Folston, who rushed for 889 yards last season, and dual threat quarterback Malik Zaire.
Associate head coach Mike Denbrock says the Irish have a powerful offensive line with a nasty edge they hope to take advantage of. Coach Brian Kelly concedes he’d like the Irish to run the ball more, but says it will depend on how opponents defend the Irish.