Notre Dame is set to host the Navy Midshipmen later today in what promises to be a highly contested game. Both teams enter with very similar records, but the key difference lies in momentum. The Irish have been steadily improving, riding a six-game winning streak, while Navy recently missed an opportunity to turn this matchup into a top-25 contest after a loss last weekend.
Notre Dame finds itself firmly in the mix for a College Football Playoff berth and now controls its own fate. To maintain this trajectory, here are three keys for the Irish to keep their winning ways alive and move closer to securing a playoff spot.
### 1. Slow Down Navy’s Rushing Attack
The unstoppable force behind Navy’s offense is their dynamic rushing duo: quarterback Blake Horvath and running back Alex Tecza. Both are averaging over five yards per carry this season and have combined for 19 rushing touchdowns. Expect plenty of misdirection plays from the Midshipmen come Saturday.
For Notre Dame, discipline will be critical. Fortunately, this has improved significantly during their six-game winning streak. The Irish defense will need to maintain focus and avoid getting out of position to limit Navy’s ground game and force them into difficult situations.
### 2. Feed the Ball to Jeremiyah Love
Jeremiyah Love is the centerpiece of Notre Dame’s offense and a serious Heisman Trophy candidate. To keep his campaign alive, the Irish must get him the ball frequently. Love has been a touchdown machine this season, having only missed scoring in the opener.
Currently, Love averages around 20 touches per game, but increasing that number by about five could make a big difference. By forcing Navy’s defense to bring their safeties up to stop Love, wide receiver CJ Carr will find more opportunities for open shots down the field. Chunk yardage from Love early and often will be key.
### 3. Notre Dame Needs to Play a Clean Game
Kicking remains a concern for Notre Dame, and all eyes will be on kicker Erik Schmidt to perform today. Schmidt has faced ups and downs this season, but now that he’s been named the starter, the hope is that he can settle into the role and stabilize this crucial aspect of the game.
It’s not just the kicking game that needs attention. Special teams have been solid but not as dominant as they were last year. A few costly mistakes have prevented plays from fully clicking, but the potential is there.
Additionally, minimizing turnovers on offense would greatly improve the Irish’s chances. By playing a clean, mistake-free game, Notre Dame can maintain their winning streak and continue their push toward the College Football Playoff.
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Stay tuned for ongoing coverage of Notre Dame news, notes, and opinions as the season progresses.
https://fightingirishwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/college/fighting-irish/football/2025/11/08/notre-dame-football-preview-navy-how-to-watch-keys-to-game/87154558007/
