Notre Dame is not in the best shape ahead of its impending CFP Championship matchup against Ohio State on Monday, Jan. 20. The Fighting Irish are 8.5 point underdogs at BetMGM and they’re dealing with some health issues up front that could make facing an elite defense in the title game difficult. Let’s go over what absences could impact the result in a major way.
The most glaring injury for Notre Dame has been to left tackle Anthonie Knapp, who’s been ruled out for the CFP championship with a right ankle sprain. The freshman lineman suffered the injury in the second quarter of Notre Dame’s semifinal matchup with Penn State and was replaced by graduate senior Tosh Baker.
Knapp started in all 15 of Notre Dame’s games during the season and played a crucial role in the team’s sometimes shaky passing attack. There will be an air of uncertainty on Monday. Especially since starting right guard Rocco Spindler had to be replaced against Penn State as well. He’ll try to practice this week in hopes of suiting up Ohio State, though. Spindler’s return to action could provide the Fighting Irish with some assurance, as star running back Jeremiyah Love has been dealing with a knee injury. While Marcus Freeman said he should be a full go in the CFP Championship, familiar faces up front will only help him.
Bettors should likely anticipate a decline in Ryan Leonard’s protection with two key positions in limbo. Ohio State has generated at least four sacks in each of its playoff games this postseason and will be sure to apply pressure on a quarterback who’s tallied three touchdowns and three interceptions so far in the playoffs.
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